Rangers rumors: Michael Bourn, Justin Upton

The Texas Rangers are keeping lines of communication open on free agent Michael Bourn and Arizona Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton, and they’re interested in acquiring either player if the "price is right," according to Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports:

Rangers are keeping lines of communication open on Bourn (free agent) and Upton (trade), prepared to act if price is right.

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) January 14, 2013

The Rangers have been tied to both players throughout the offseason, as they’ve been to many of the market’s high-profile targets. However, Texas has failed to land any of the biggest names, including Josh Hamilton, Zack Greinke, James Shields, Josh Johnson and R.A. Dickey. They’ve also watched Mike Napoli all but exit via free agency.

Instead the Rangers added Lance Berkman, A.J. Pierzynski and Joakim Soria. They may not be finished, as there are still several options remaining on the open market, including Bourn and former St. Louis Cardinals right-hander Kyle Lohse. The Diamondbacks also seem poised to trade Upton.

Texas currently projects a starting outfield that includes Leonys Martin, David Murphy and Nelson Cruz. For this reason, they wouldn’t appear to be an obvious fit for either Bourn or Upton. However, Cruz and Murphy will be free agents after the season and the Rangers could view Bourn or Upton as long-term upgrades.