Kyle Lohse rumors: Rangers, others in contact with free agent

Free agent right-hander Kyle Lohse has yet to sign his next contract, but he's continuing to work out in preparation for the 2013 season. His agent, Scott Boras, says multiple teams -- including the Texas Rangers -- are interested in Lohse, and he's still seeking a three-year deal with a "big" average annual salary for his client, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.

Lohse is completing "workouts" and has "continued talking with a number of teams," according to Boras. Clubs are currently evaluating their "existing situations," but that hasn't stopped them from calling Boras and expressing interest in Lohse.

Lohse continues to be tied to draft-pick compensation, a factor that is thought to play a large role in him remaining a free agent well into the month of March. However, Boras' asking price for Lohse is still extremely high for a 34-year-old, regardless of his connection to draft-pick compensation.

For that reason, it's hard to see Lohse signing a new deal soon unless his price tag drops. While teams won't have to surrender a pick to sign the right-hander if they wait until after the 2013 MLB Draft, Boras continues to believe his client will sign before then.

At this point, the Rangers appear to be the best fit for Lohse. Following Martin Perez's injury, Texas has significant questions surrounding their No. 5 starter spot. However, the club continues to say publicly that it's comfortable filling the vacancy with an in-house option.