SPORTS:ARLINGTON, Texas — Cliff Lee is suddenly in the starting rotation for the AL West-leading Texas Rangers, who pulled off a big deal despite bankruptcy proceedings and unsettled ownership.
The Seattle Mariners sent the ace left-hander and reliever Mark Lowe to the Rangers on Friday for rookie first baseman Justin Smoak and three minor leaguers. Texas also receives cash as part of the deal.
It was the third trade in less than a year for Lee, who went 8-3 with a 2.34 ERA in 13 starts for Seattle. He can become a free agent after this season.
