James Shields Rumors: D'Backs, Rangers Interested

James Shields could be a viable trade target for a number of teams. Nick Piecoro of the Arizona Republic hears that the Arizona Diamondbacks have interest in the right-handed starter.

I've also heard from folks with other teams that the Dbacks have interest in Rays RHP James Shields. That's third-party info. Grain of salt.

— Nick Piecoro (@nickpiecoro) July 31, 2012

Arizona minor leaguer Pat Corbin was scratched his schedule start today, so he may be involved in trade discussions.

Jim Bowden of ESPN and MLB Netwok Radio reports that the Texas Rangers are connected to James Shields of the Tampa Bay Rays.

Rangers circling back to kick the tires on James Shields but NOT going to move Olt or Profar no matter what

— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) July 31, 2012

The Rangers appear to be reluctant to trade top prospects Jurickson Profar (SS) and Mike Olt (3B) in any trade, but the right deal might be enough to change their minds, as the left side of the team's infield is already occupied by all-stars Elvis Andrus (SS) and Adrian Beltre (3B).

The Rays have a surplus of pitching and constantly look to restock their farm system. WIth Shields' value on the open market, the right package could be enough to entice the Rays into flipping the 30-year-old. Nothing is imminent, but there appears to be at least some chance that a deal is made prior to today's 4 P.M. deadline.