LEE LANDS IN TEXAS
The Texas Rangers acquired pitchers Cliff Lee and Mark Lowe from the Seattle Mariners for first baseman Justin Smoak, pitchers Blake Beavan and Josh Lueke, and second baseman Matthew Lawson.
What does it give the Texas Rangers
The Rangers are definitely going for the AL West division crown this year. After landing catcher Bengie Molina recently, they now pick up the top available starter in Lee, who immediately becomes the team's ace starter. Lowe was also added as a reliever for depth purposes. Lee may not be able to match his Seattle numbers, however, now that he'll pitch half the time in Arlington--a hitters' haven. Also, this appears to be strictly a rental situation, as the Rangers probably won't get into the bidding for Lee in the off-season.
What does it give the Seattle Mariners
In Smoak, the Mariners land a very good first-base prospect. He should immediately take over for Casey Kotchman, who has disappointed on offense this year. The Mariners also picked up a solid pitching prospect in Beavan, as well as a potential reliever in Lueke. Lastly, Lawson is a decent infield prospect for a team in desperate need of more offense.
Fantasy impact
