Agencies/Denver

With 10 days to go before the trade deadline, the Rangers remain very much involved in talks with Philadelphia over ace lefty Cole Hamels (pictured), major league sources said Tuesday.
Philadelphia has spent much of the last two months scouting the farm systems of potential trade suitors for Hamels. The Rangers and Houston Astros appear to line up as two of the most desired partners. It could create a best-case scenario for Philadelphia with two AL West teams bidding against one another.
Hamels, 31, is 5-7 this year for Philadelphia with a 3.91 ERA. He has seen his ERA rise nearly a full run over his last two starts, in which he has allowed 14 runs in 61/3innings.
Hamels is signed through 2018 at a cost of $23.5 million per year. His contract includes provisions for both a team and vesting option based on innings pitched for 2019. The deal includes a $6 million buyout if the team option is not picked up. It’s expected that Philadelphia will have to send some cash along with Hamels to complete a deal for the best package of prospects.
Acquiring Hamels would be a boost to the Rangers’ sagging 2015 chances, but would be aimed more at solidifying the rotation for 2016-17, the final two years of Yu Darvish’s contract.
The Rangers would likely have to give up a top prospect other than Joey Gallo to headline the deal. The most likely options: Outfielder Nomar Mazara or catcher Jorge Alfaro, who is out for the year with an ankle issue but is still highly regarded. It is unclear what the Phillies would be seeking from Houston’s deep farm system.

Ventura sent to minor leagues as Royals activate Vargas
The frustrating sophomore season of Yordano Ventura has reached its nadir: The Royals have optioned Ventura, their opening day starter, to Class AAA Omaha to make room on the roster for Jason Vargas.
The Royals agreed to a $23 million contract with Ventura before the season began, and expected him to build off his impressive rookie campaign. Little has gone right for Ventura, who has been hampered by injuries, emotional outbursts and dispirited pitching.