Rangers place Julio Borbon on waivers

Unable to trade Julio Borbon, the Texas Rangers have placed the outfielder on outright waivers, according to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports.

The Rangers had designated Borbon for assignment last week to make room on the roster for right-handed starting pitcher Nick Tepesch. Texas had until today to work out a trade for the outfielder, otherwise they would be forced to waive him.

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This appears to be what has ultimately happened, even though the Rangers expressed confidence that they'd be able to complete a trade prior to today's deadline. The Baltimore Orioles reportedly were very interested in acquiring Borbon, but they didn't end up pulling the trigger on a deal. Texas was said to covet starting pitchers with options remaining in any trade for the outfielder.

Now the Houston Astros will have the first crack at claiming Borbon, should they wish to do so. The outfielder is all but a guarantee to be claimed, as the Astros, Orioles, Minnesota Twins and Chicago Cubs are a few of the teams that have been tied to him since he was designated.

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