Josh Hamilton, the most coveted hitter in baseball free agency, appears to have narrowed his choices to the Rangers – two World Series appearances in the last three years – and the … Mariners? The Seattle Times says:

I’m now told the talks between the two sides have been a lot more serious than anyone has let on and that they are actually “very close” to getting a deal done. The one thing holding the process up is the fact the Texas Rangers are also interested in hanging on to Hamilton and remain the most serious Mariners competitor on that front. But the Rangers also remain engaged in a two-pronged battle with the Dodgers for the services of starting pitcher Zack Greinke and would not be able to land both him and Hamilton.

The Mariners? Seattle hasn’t reached the postseason in a decade. It has finished above .500 once in the last four years (twice in the last eight). I’m sure if Hamilton heads to the Northwest, the Seattle/coffee/vision jokes will be flying. Wonder if the Mariners moving in the fences made Seattle attractive to Hamilton, or if it is simply a money thing.

Chase the World Series ring in Texas (maybe for slightly less money), or get your last big contract and get paid by a terrible franchise?

Previously: Josh Hamilton, Still Battling Relapse Demons, Seen Drinking at Dallas Area Bar
Previously: Josh Hamilton, What is He Worth? Jayson Werth Money? A-Rod Money? Pujols Money?
Previously: Josh Hamilton Hit Four Homers Against the Orioles, and Here’s Video of All of Them