Ryan Dempster shut down the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday, as the Cubs topped the D'Backs, 4-1. Big deal, right?
Well, the outcome is irrelevant for the Rangers and Rangers fans, but at least one player in the game was being watched by one of Texas' scouts. According to Jon Paul Morosi, the Rangers had a scout on hand to check out Justin Upton, as the Rangers explore a trade for the D'Backs outfielder.
Also: #Rangers had a scout at Wrigley today to see Justin Upton and Joe Saunders of #DBacks. @MLBONFOX
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 14, 2012
Forget the bit about Joe Saunders. The Rangers have nowhere to start him, with a rotation featuring Yu Darvish, Colby Lewis, Matt Harrison, Derek Holland and Roy Oswalt.
It's all about Upton for the Rangers here, as it should be. Despite the fact that he's slugging under .400, he's still one of the premiere talents in the entire league. If the Rangers trade for Upton, it would make Texas' lineup just that much better, and it would give them a five-tool outfielder that could ease the pain this winter if Josh Hamilton departs via free agency.
For what it's worth, Upton went 0-2 with two walks on Saturday afternoon.
Rangers fans should check out Lone Star Ball and join the discussion.