Jul

Update – San Franciso Giants trade Bengie Molina to the Texas Rangers for Chris Ray

By Allan

The San Francisco Giants have traded Bengie Molina and roughly $2 million to the Texas Rangers for right-handed relief pitcher Chris Ray. Jim Callis of Baseball America (via Evan Grant of The Dallas Moring News) says the second player headed to the Giants is right-handed pitcher Michael Main.

Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports first reported the discussions between the two clubs. At the time, Giants GM Brian Sabean would not speak about any specifics regarding the trade scenario other than him being open to trade offers for the catcher. Andrew Baggarly of the San Jose Mercury News tweets, “Rangers GM Daniels addressed reporters, wouldn’t discuss Molina. Looks like this might not become official until tomorrow?”

Baggarly later added that Molina is not parting with the Giants yet. He’s staying at the team’s hotel tonight in Denver and possibly report to Coors Field tomorrow.

“I might be at the field tomorrow and address you guys there,” Molina said. “It’s easier. They haven’t told me yet it’s official. The commissioner has to approve something on the deal. So they, Bochy, told me, be aware and just if I don’t hear anything by the time of the game, go to the field.”

Prior to the trade, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News said the Rangers were in a holding pattern in regards to roster moves pending the outcome of the supposed Molina trade. Grant says:

Though it was expected the Rangers were going to send out LHP Matt Harrison to make room for tonight’s starter, RHP Omar Beltre, the club has held off on making any announcements for the time being. Beltre is still scheduled to start, but if the Rangers strike a deal for Molina, it could impact how they proceed with roster construction.

The trade of Molina now paves the way for rookie Buster Posey to take over behind the plate.

Yesterday, we discussed a few scenarios that the Giants could be in, including a trade of Molina. You can check our recent San Francisco Giants trade scenario here.

Molina, 35, signed a 1 year contract with the Giants this past winter for $4.5 million.

Ray, a 28-year-old right-handed relief pitcher, was 2-0 with a 3.41 ERA in 35 appearances for the Rangers this year. John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle says Ray is expected to join the Giants in Denver tomorrow for their series against the Rockies.