Yu Darvish Trade Rumors: Nationals Reportedly Interested in Rangers Star

The Washington Nationals' search for starting pitching depth has put Texas Rangers ace Yu Darvish on their radar leading up to the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. 

MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported the Nationals' interest in Darvish but added the team would prefer to acquire a starting pitcher under control beyond 2017. 

It's unclear how motivated the Rangers are to deal Darvish right now. ESPN.com's Jerry Crasnick reported Tuesday the 30-year-old could be moved for the "right deal."

However, MLB.com's T.R. Sullivan reported Monday the Rangers were "strongly leaning toward" keeping Darvish, adding they would have to be "overwhelmed" by an offer or if their "postseason hopes crash with another losing streak this week."

The Nationals do have one advantage in potential talks for Darvish. They are not one of 10 teams listed on his partial no-trade clause, per Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal, meaning he wouldn't have to approve a deal to Washington. 

Stephen Strasburg left his start on Sunday after two innings against the Arizona Diamondbacks, but MLB.com's Jamal Collier reported the right-hander could make his next start on Saturday. 

Darvish is having another strong season for the Rangers. He was named to the American League All-Star team and owns a 3.44 ERA with 143 strikeouts in 133.1 innings.