Julio Borbon rumors: Mets, Astros

In an expected move, the Texas Rangers designated outfielder Julio Borbon for assignment yesterday to make room on their roster for starting pitcher Nick Tepesch. There's expected to be interest in the Rangers' former starting center fielder, and Jon Heyman of CBS Sports believes the Houston Astros and New York Mets could be suitors.

The Rangers knew Borbon wouldn't be on their roster beyond Tuesday, it was just a matter of how the team was going to remove him. Apparently, a trade wasn't an option, as Texas designated the speedy outfielder last night prior to their contest against the Tampa Bay Rays.

Rangers acquire Robinson Chirinos; DFA Jeff Beliveau

The Rangers have acquired catcher Robinson Chirinos from Tampa Bay.

Now, Borbon will hang in limbo while his fate is decided. Many expect him to eventually be claimed, and Heyman believes the Astros and Mets are two of the most likely landing spots. Both teams could use assistance in the outfield, and Houston was tied to Borbon recently.

Borbon was Texas' regular center fielder in 2010. That season he hit .276/.309/.340 with 11 doubles, four triples and three home runs with 15 stolen bases in 22 attempts over 468 plate appearances. The 27-year-old owns a career batting line of .283/.324/.358 over parts of four years in the majors.

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