Rangers trade rumors: Texas interested in Derek Norris, Jonathan Lucroy

While the Rangers are known to be seeking starting pitching help, they have also expressed interest in Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy and Padres catcher Derek Norris, according to FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal.

Norris is a “near lock” to be moved in advance of the deadline, according to Rosenthal, but the Rangers could still continue to pursue Lucroy. SB Nation’s Chris Cotillo reports the Rangers are engaged in trade talks involving Norris but that they aren’t serious.

Lucroy, 30, is one of the bigger names being shopped. Milwaukee enters play 16.5 games behind the Cubs in the National League Central and is expected to sell several major league pieces before Monday’s deadline. Since Lucroy has a team option for 2017, the Brewers will likely expect several prospects in return.

Over 94 games this season, Lucroy is batting .300/.360/.484 with 13 home runs and 50 RBIs. A career .284 hitter, Lucroy is having his best offensive season since 2014.

Texas could remain interested in Lucroy, but since they will likely be forced to part with several prospects in a deal for a starting pitcher, Norris might emerge as a more realistic target. The Padres have already moved Fernando Rodney, Drew Pomeranz, Andrew Cashner and Colin Rea and don’t appear to be done.

Norris, 27, is having a down year offensively, batting .196/.256/.365 with 12 home runs and 33 RBIs over 88 games. While he could add power to Texas’ lineup, Norris is a career .238 hitter.

Norris isn’t arbitration eligible until 2017 and isn’t eligible for free agency until 2019.