Josh Hamilton rumors: Rangers making progress toward deal

The Texas Rangers and free agent outfielder Josh Hamilton are "making progress" on a deal that, if reached, would likely be for four years, reports Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

The market for Hamilton has yet to develop much, but there were reports that the Rangers were the free agent’s most aggressive suitor. Given the fact that the team lost slugger Mike Napoli to the Boston Red Sox they figure to be in the market for offense this winter.

Rosenthal adds that it is still possible another team could beat the Rangers’ offer for Hamilton. The free agent outfielder is reportedly seeking a seven-year deal in the range of $175 million.

Given Hamilton’s injury-riddled career and his struggles with substance abuse teams are reportedly hesitant to offer that long-term of a contract for the slugger. Given his immense talent and the numbers he posts when healthy, he is likely to command a high average annual salary regardless of how many years he’s signed for.

Last season with the Rangers Hamilton hit .285/.354/.577 with 31 doubles, two triples and 43 home runs. His impressive totals once again had him in the American League MVP discussions. The 31-year-old owns a career line of .304/.363/.549 over six seasons at the major league level.