ARLINGTON, Texas — Cliff Lee is suddenly in the starting rotation for the AL West-leading Texas Rangers, who pulled off a big deal despite bankruptcy proceedings and unsettled ownership.
The Mariners sent the ace left-hander and reliever Mark Lowe to the Rangers on Friday for rookie first baseman Justin Smoak and three minor-leaguers. Texas also receives cash for Lee, who can become a free agent after this season.
While the Rangers might have a hard time affording Lee long-term, they now have one of baseball’s best pitchers for a serious run at their first playoff appearance since 1999.
“They’ve got a great team, they’re in first place and I’m going to try and go there and do everything I can to help them head in the direction they’re heading,” Lee said.
It was the third trade in less than a year for Lee, who was 8-3 with a 2.34 ERA in 13 starts for Seattle. His first start for Texas will be today against Baltimore.
