Byrd's return to the Rangers not looking likely

The Rangers lose exclusive negotiating rights to Marlon Byrd as of midnight (ET) Thursday. The possibility of him returning to the Rangers is growing dim.

Rangers general manager Jon Daniels met with Sam Levinson - Byrd's agent - in Chicago earlier this month. They did not appear to be productive conversations.

"We've had a decent amount of conversation," Daniels said. "I expect them to test the market. Based on what they're looking for...we're not in a position to do that right now. We expect them to talk to other clubs and see what's out there. We're going to be looking at alternatives."

The Rangers are satisfied that they will have center field covered with Josh Hamilton and Julio Borbon. They appear more concerned about losing Byrd's right-handed bat. They are looking for a middle-of-the-order right-handed bat. Among the interesting free agents are Vladimir Guerrero, Gary Sheffield, Jermaine Dye and Fernando Tatis.

Two other names that should interest them are Randy Winn and Mike Cameron. Both can play center field.

-- T.R. Sullivan