Outfielder Ian Desmond is leaving the Texas Rangers to join the Colorado Rockies on a multiyear deal, Fox Sports reported Wednesday.
Desmond, a former shortstop, is expected to play some first base for Colorado but also could play center field, allowing the Rockies to shop Charlie Blackmon, who would be attractive to multiple teams in need, including the Cardinals, Nationals and now Rangers.
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The Rockies forfeited their No. 11 overall pick in the upcoming draft to make the move.
Pending a physical, Desmond's deal is for five years and $70 million, the New York Daily News reported first.
Desmond, an All-Star selection in 2016, hit .285/.335/.446 (104 OPS+) with 22 home runs, 86 RBIs and 21 steals during his only season with the Rangers.