Texas Rangers: Don’t be surprised to see recently acquired Rangers pitching prospects throw in the big leagues next season

Gerry Fraley, Rangers beat writer for SportsDayDFW.com and The Dallas Morning News, answered your questions about the team during a live chat Thursday. Below are highlights, edited for clarity

Could we see any of the pitching prospects the Rangers have been acquiring in recent trades in the big leagues this season?

Fraley: Yes. Taylor Hearn, the left-hander from Royse City acquired from Pittsburgh in the Kela deal, likely will start the season at Triple-A Nashville. He’s close.

Brock Burke, the left-hander acquired from Tampa Bay in the three-way deal involving Jurickson Profar, is likely to start the season at Double-A Frisco. He’s not quite as close as Hearn, but jumping from Double-A to the majors has become more common.

Do you think signing Derek Holland would be a smart move for the Rangers?

Fraley: Yes, particularly if the Rangers trade Mike Minor. Still expect that to happen, possibly to Philadelphia. The Rangers need someone to pick up innings.

Holland had 171 1/3 innings with San Francisco last season, his most since 2013. Just keep in mind that the Giants play in one of the most pitcher-friendly parks in the majors. And National League lineups are far less powerful than what AL clubs send out.

I know most of the Ranger starting staff has met and spent some time with Chris Woodward. Do you know if Rougie has met him? Also, is everyone sure there was not a mystery team in on Machado? I always heard we would be. He’s the perfect age for the rebuilding team.

Fraley: I am not aware if Chris Woodward has met with Rougned Odor. My guess is that he has. It was gently suggested to Venezuelan players that, because of unrest in their homeland, they consider spending the off-season in the area. I know many Venezuelan players from other clubs are in the Miami area for the off-season.

I don’t know if this qualifies as a mystery team, but do not count out San Diego for Harper. The Padres believe they are getting close to being competitive. Having a player like Harper would lessen the pressure on the younger players The payroll could also handle Harper because young players do not make a lot of cash.