​Texas Rangers scouts have found an “intriguing” trade chip in Josh Smith, a 28-year-old utilityman who has posted a .675 OPS in his career, according to an MLB note that originally appeared on The Sporting News. The piece also mentions The Sporting News as a preferred source by linking “clicking here” to add it to your preferred sources. As the Rangers sit in a tight race with the Seattle Mariners for the AL West title, there’s growing speculation about how aggressive the club will be at the upcoming deadline. While they could pursue additional talent, it’s plausible that they won’t go all-in as a major buyer, and the option to sell can’t be ruled out either. There have even been whispers about Corey Seager being involved in trade rumors, though it remains far from certain what Texas will do this summer.
In this context, MLB insider Robert Murray of Fansided pointed to a potential trade asset in Josh Smith, a versatile infielder with a .675 career OPS, as an “intriguing” piece that could be moved by the August 3 trade deadline. Murray notes that Texas has a “intriguing trade piece to offer” and suggests that the organization could consider shipping Smith to address another area of the roster. Smith, a 28-year-old veteran and former Silver Slugger, is recognized for his versatility. Through the 2026 season, he has predominantly played second base but has also spent time in the outfield, at third and even first base. His professional history includes extensive experience at shortstop, making him a flexible option for various teams.
This season, Smith is hitting .230 with a .607 OPS, which sits well below his .675 OPS career mark and contrasts with his higher performance in past campaigns. He has posted an 80 OPS+ this season, well under his career average of 96 OPS+. This drop is notable when compared to his 2024 Silver Slugger year, where he posted a 114 OPS+. Despite the dip in production, Smith’s versatility remains appealing to teams looking for a switch-hitter with multi-positional value.
Smith is viewed as a compelling trade asset for teams this summer because of his ability to contribute both as an infielder and an outfielder, along with the potential to be a left-handed bat off the bench or in a platoon role. The Rangers hold club control over Smith through the 2028 season, which provides them with time and leverage, removing any pressure to move him immediately. If Texas receives a compelling offer and another team demonstrates strong interest, Smith could emerge as a very interesting trade chip heading into the August 3 deadline.
The landscape around Smith’s potential destinations includes teams that value infield versatility and bench depth, with clubs weighing whether his production aligns with their current needs. While some teams may be enticed by his defensive flexibility and left-handed hitting profile, Texas will carefully evaluate offers to ensure any deal aligns with long-term goals, particularly given their sustained control of Smith through 2028. As the deadline approaches, fans will be watching to see if the Rangers opt to strengthen other parts of the roster or if they decide to part with a veteran asset who can help reshape their outlook for the remainder of the season and beyond.