SMYLY SENT TO TEXAS
The Texas Rangers acquired pitcher Drew Smyly and a player to be named later from the Chicago Cubs for a player to be named later.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
The Rangers need starting pitching in a bad way, so it is not a bad gamble to take a shot with veteran Smyly here. The 29-year-old left-hander has been limited to just one inning since 2016 because of Tommy John surgery, but he should be at full strength to begin 2019.
What does it give the Chicago Cubs
Unlike Texas, the Cubs do not have too many issues with their starting rotation. Therefore, they decided to shed a little salary here by moving out Smyly's contract ($7 million/year) in exchange for a swap of prospects that will be named at a future date.
Fantasy impact
Smyly could be a pretty decent fantasy sleeper in 2019, provided he returns to past form with both Detroit and Tampa Bay. He should easily earn a spot in the Rangers' rotation if healthy.
Player focus
Chicago Cubs
a player to be named later