Rangers' Young talks are stagnant

Michael Young, the Texas Rangers’ third baseman and leader, remained available on the trade market as the baseball winter meetings concluded Thursday. But multiple sources indicated to FOXSports.com that there is currently no momentum toward a deal.

For the moment, at least, the Rangers’ only serious engagement concerning Young is with the Colorado Rockies. And those talks were “dormant” as of early Thursday afternoon, sources said.

Earlier this week, one general manager said the Rangers have sent mixed signals about their willingness to part with Young, the six-time All-Star and unofficial team captain. Young is due $48 million over the next three seasons, and Texas probably would need to include cash to facilitate a trade.

One source believes Texas would like to trade Young in order to free up payroll — and a starting spot on the infield — for free agent Adrian Beltre.

At this point in their respective careers, Beltre, an All-Star with Boston this year, is regarded the better all-around player. But Young posted solid offensive numbers this season by the standards of third basemen: He batted .284 with 21 home runs and 91 RBI in 157 games.

The Rockies are one of only eight teams to which Young can be traded without his permission. They would use him at second base, a position he hasn't played regularly in seven years.

Charlie Blackmon, a left-handed-hitting outfielder, is among the Colorado prospects who have been discussed between the Rockies and Rangers, according to a source.

The Rangers’ ongoing pursuit of free-agent starter Cliff Lee — which could be resolved in the next 48 hours — will have a major impact on the team’s payroll commitments for the next several years. If Texas fails to re-sign Lee, the team could intensify its pursuit of Beltre – thus making a Young trade more plausible.