While it's all just speculation at this point, there is a chance Josh Hamilton is not back with the Texas Rangers in 2013. If such a scenario comes to fruition, the Rangers will undoubtedly be out looking for a replacement. Who's out there?
The first few names that come to mind are the Upton brothers. B.J., a centerfielder, is a free agent and offers plus defense and baserunning, but his bat has been a major disappointment over the course of his career. Younger brother Justin has had two star-caliber years offensively, and could be an ideal replacement considering he's a good defensive right fielder with middle-of-the-order potential and would not cost the Rangers $150 million. He would, however, require quite the trade package.
If the Rangers believe top prospect Jurickson Profar is ready to handle shortstop in 2013,Elvis Andrus could be the key name in a deal for Upton.
Other options for Texas could include the likes of Nick Swisher, who could play first base and the outfield, first baseman Justin Morneau or right fielder Josh Willingham. On a larger scale, if the Rangers were to offer the Colorado Rockies a pitching-laden trade package, perhaps Carlos Gonzalez isn't 100 percent off limits.
If the Red Sox were to say goodbye to David Ortiz, he, too, could be a fit in Texas.
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