MLB Trade Rumors: Texas Rangers Would Be Wise to Stay Away from Josh Johnson

With Zack Greinke—the top prize on the market—heading to their AL West rivals, the Texas Rangers have turned their attention to Miami Marlins pitcher Josh Johnson (h/t Bob Nightengale, USA Today).

Unfortunately, the Marlins are clearly delusional about Johnson's value. According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN.com, the Marlins' asking price for the 28-year-old right-hander is ridiculously high.

"

Sources say the #Marlins are asking for each team's top 2 or 3 prospects in every trade scenario involving Josh Johnson.

— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 27, 2012"

"

We're talking Jurickson Profar-Travis D'Arnaud types just to get talks moving, then a lot more beyond that. #marlins

— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 27, 2012"

Like I said, ridiculously high. Although the Rangers need an ace, if their executives are smart (and I believe they are), they will promptly tell the Marlins front office to go clone themselves.

Johnson is a talented pitcher, but he's certainly not worth that price, regardless of how desperate the Rangers may be feeling now. 

Johnson is as injury-prone as they come, as he always seems to be battling some sort of health issue. He's only started 30-plus games once in his seven-year career, and he's pitched more than 150 innings just three times.

His production away from the friendly confines of Sun Life Stadium is also concerning. Johnson has a 3.35 ERA at home this season, but his road ERA is a paltry 5.48—not exactly ace material.

Sure, the Rangers' pitching staff now pales in comparison to the Angels', but Texas still has the most feared lineup in baseball, a four-game lead in the AL West and, with prospects like Jurickson Profar in their farm system, a very bright future.

They can't afford to sacrifice that in some ill-conceived attempt at matching the Angels' move.