--A pair of Rangers picked up Players Association awards in late October. CF Josh Hamilton, one of just five major-leaguers to hit .300 or better with at least 30 home runs and 120 RBIs, was named AL Outstanding Player of the Year. SS Michael Young was named the AL's Marvin Miller Player of the Year for his on-field performance and contributions to his community.
--The Rangers have been told that San Diego RHP Jake Peavy will not waive his no-trade clause to accept a trade to Texas. --DH/OF Milton Bradley, who has said he'll either get a multiyear deal this winter or not play in 2009, filed for free agency on Oct. 30 as the filing period opened. Four others Rangers also filed: INFs Hank Blalock and Ramon Vazquez and RHPs Jamey Wright and Jason Jennings. Bradley led the AL in on-base percentage and on-base-plus-slugging percentage this year.
--Though Blalock filed for free agency, the Rangers had 10 days from the end of the World Series to pick up his $6.2 million option. The Rangers were expected to pick up the option, but they likely will listen to trade offers for Blalock this winter. Rookie INF Chris Davis could then move back to first base.
BY THE NUMBERS: 12 -- Players who made their major league debut in 2008 for the Rangers.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "I think that there are opportunities to improve the club (in the bullpen). Tampa did a good job of that this year, filling it from a variety of sources. We're aware of the historical risks of multiyear deals in that area, but there are always a handful of good short-term deals available in the bullpen." -- GM Jon Daniels, discussing an area the club might consider trying to upgrade this winter through free agency.
