Winner of the 2016 Trade Deadline

The non-waiver Trade Deadline is always a busy time of the year, and 2016 was no exception. There were a total of 48 trades completed from June 1 through the Deadline, five more than last year. Many contenders were loading up for October baseball, while other teams chose to rebuild. The Texas Rangers came out on top as the winner in my eyes because of the impact players they received.

It was only two weeks ago that there was concern surrounding the Rangers, who had dropped 15 of 19 from June 29 to July 22. Houston was creeping up on them, only 2 1/2 games back in the American League West on July 22. Texas has gone 7-3 since, extending its lead to 5 1/2 games. Their most glaring need was a starting pitcher, but with the elevated price of starters due to a barren upcoming free-agent class, the Rangers looked to improve elsewhere.

They made two significant moves, the first a trade for veteran Carlos Beltran from the Yankees to solidify their designated hitter spot due to the absence of slugger Prince Fielder. Beltran is having an excellent year at age 39, hitting .300 with 22 home runs and 64 RBIs. He is a professional hitter who makes those around him better. Beltran also carries an excellent postseason track record. In 52 postseason games, Beltran owns a .332 average with 16 home runs, 13 doubles and 40 RBIs. Texas is looking to make a run at the World Series, and adding a hitter of this caliber to a lineup only increases its chances.

The second major move was the acquisition of catcher Jonathan Lucroy and right-handed reliever Jeremy Jeffress from the Brewers. Lucroy was acquired by the Rangers a day after he nixed a deal to the Indians. The 30-year-old backstop is hitting .297 with 13 homers and 50 RBIs. His value goes beyond his offense. On the defensive side, Lucroy is rated as one of the best pitch framers in the game in addition to being one of the top game callers. His experience behind the plate can help a pitching staff tremendously. Jeffress is having a career, owning a 2.22 ERA to go along with 27 saves in his first season in the closer role. He bolsters a bullpen that is 28th in the Majors in bullpen ERA at 4.81. The 28-year-old Jeffress gives Texas the option of closing or setting up for Sam Dyson.

While many other teams acquired an impact player, the Rangers stockpiled three impact players who can make a difference in the quest for a World Series.