The Texas Rangers met Chicago White Sox free-agent catcher A.J. Pierzynski and his agent in Arlington on Tuesday, according to two major league sources.
The Rangers are looking to beef up their depleted offense by adding a left-handed power hitter after losing free agent Josh Hamilton to the Los Angeles Angels.
Pierzynski had a career year in 2012, hitting 27 home runs and driving in 77 runs. The 35-year-old catcher will be looked at as both a catcher and a DH if he signs with the Rangers.
Pierzynski was one of the key performers in the White Sox's run at the AL Central Division title. He leads all catchers in games, hits and doubles since 2001. Pierzynski was paid $6 million in 2012 in the second year of a two-year, $8 million contract.
The White Sox are prepared to start the coming season with Tyler Flowers as their starter. Flowers was Pierzynski's backup last season, hitting .213 with seven home runs and 13 RBIs last season.