Report: Rangers expected to be serious contenders for James Shields

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James Shields is poised to become one of the most highly sought-after free agents since Jon Lester signed a six-year deal with the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday, and the Texas Rangers have already started courting the 32-year-old right-hander.

According to Chris Cotillo of MLB Daily Dish, the Rangers met with Shields during the winter meetings in San Diego and are expected to be "serious contenders" for the former All-Star.

The Rangers could also attempt to improve their rotation via trade - the club has been linked to both Dillon Gee and Wade Miley - but may be inclined to dramatically bolster their starting corps by signing Shields, who managed a 3.21 ERA with a 4.09 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 34 starts last season.