Mets Trade Jeff Francoeur To Rangers For Joaquin Arias

Up against the deadline for playoff eligibility, the Rangers swung a trade to address a perceived weakness on the bench by landing Jeff Francoeur from the Mets for Joaquin Arias.

The Rangers have acquired outfielder Jeff Francoeur on Tuesday night. Francoeur confirmed to reporters that he had been traded to the Rangers have the Mets game on Tuesday. An announcement is coming later tonight. The Rangers will send Joaquin Arias to the Mets. He was designated for assignment last week.

By adding Francoeur in advance of the August 31st deadline, the outfielder will be able to play with the Rangers in the postseason. Though the 26 year old is famous for having a poor approach at the plate, he owns a career .296 average and .820 OPS against left-handed pitchers. Used properly, he could be a minor asset off the bench.

Arias turns 26 this month, and the middle infielder sprays the ball around while rarely walking or hitting for power. No longer capable of playing a good shortstop, Arias is nevertheless a former prospect who may be able to stick by hitting for a decent average.

For more on the deal, check out Amazin' Avenue and Lone Star Ball.