MLB Trade Rumors: Why the Texas Rangers Should Steer Clear of Josh Beckett

The Boston Red Sox are gauging interest in Josh Beckett, and they called the Texas Rangers as a potential partner, according to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports.

The Texas Rangers should stay away from this trade.

I realize that the Rangers are desperate to stay ahead of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and since the Angels went out for Zack Greinke, the Rangers might feel pressured to jump at any somewhat big-name pitcher who is offered to them.

Beckett is not a bad pitcher even though this season hasn't been very good. So far, he is just 5-9 on the season, and if he doesn't finish at at least .500, it will be only the second time in his career he has had a losing record (the first was in 2002).

However, the problem with this trade is not Beckett himself. This trade would become a problem because we all know that competition is surely going to develop. The starting pitching market is so thin right now that if Beckett is traded, the Red Sox will surely get more than he is worth in return.

Texas seems to want to add some type of starting pitcher, so they will probably end up overpaying for someone. If they are going to overpay, it should only be for Josh Johnson. Yes, he is definitely injury prone, but they only need him to be healthy for the remainder of the season to help them pursue a World Series.

Beckett might help them, but it is hard to get excited about trading for a pitcher who is in the midst of the worst season in his career.

Whether you think I know everything or nothing about Major League Baseball, you should follow me on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook and keep in touch. I love hearing what you all have to say!

Follow @spinkickers