Rangers wont let Byrd fly away.

February 19, 2008 · Paul Raymond · Jump to comments

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It’s looking less and less likely that the Texas Rangers will be trading Marlon Byrd to the Chicago Cubs anytime soon. The Cubs are extremely interested in the right handed hitting center fielder but aren’t willing to meet the Rangers asking price.

The Cubs are willing to part with young outfielder Matt Murton but only in a 1 for 1 deal, which the Rangers will not agree too. Rangers brass are looking for a good young pitcher to be included in the deal, as they feel Byrd has a big edge in defense, versatility and leadership in the clubhouse. Last season, Byrd himself hit .307 with 10 homers and 70 rbis in just 109 games. While Murton, went .281 with 8 homers and 22 rbi’s in 235 at bats. Age comparison: Murton 26, Byrd 30.

Personally, I feel this would be a fair 1 for 1 deal. Byrd would be used in a platoon in Chicago anyways with Felix Pie or Sam Fuld in center, as well as seeing some time in right platooning with Kosuke Fukudome. While for Texas, they’d get a decent young OF in Murton. Not going to be an everyday starter but could wind up a solid 4th outfielder.

Living in Philadelphia, I’ve seen a lot of Marlon Byrd, granted this was a few years ago. He had the one good season (not stellar but good) in 2003 and then fell off the map in 2004. After that he kind of bounced around with the Nationals and never seemed to gain any traction and then blossomed in 2007 while getting a chance to start in Texas. With his history, I’m not sure if the Rangers can count on him to repeat last season. He still has the same high strikeout ratio he’s always had and extremely low walk total.

If Byrd reverts back to form to the Rangers are going to regret having so high of an asking price.

Check out the guys at MLBtraderumors.com who have more info on this and a couple links you could check out.

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