Rangers reportedly have discussed bringing back Michael Young

Longtime Rangers leader Michael Young reluctantly accepted a trade to the Phillies last year. (Hunter Martin/Getty Images)

The Rangers are in the market for a power-hitting outfielder or designated hitter, with the White Sox's Alex Rios, the Giants' Hunter Pence and Mariners' Kendrys Morales among the names reportedly under consideration. The team has also discussed bringing back a familiar locker room presence. CBS Sports' Jon Heyman reports team officials have discussed reacquiring third baseman Michael Young from the Phillies.

Heyman reports the move cannot be "characterized as probable," but cites sources saying the Rangers' discussions of adding pop and position players have included their former team leader.

Young developed a close relationship with Rangers manager Ron Washington and became a fan favorite during his 12 years with the team. He was a seven-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner in Texas, and stills ranks as the Rangers' all-time leader for hits and games played.

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One of the men who ultimately would make the call on Young's return became a target of his wrath during his last few seasons in Texas. Young lashed out at Rangers general manager Jon Daniels and requested a trade when the team asked him to move from shortstop to third base to make room for Elvis Andrus in 2009. Young also demanded a trade prior to the 2011 season after Daniels reassigned him to a virtually full-time role as designated hitter/utility infielder after the signing of third baseman Adrian Beltre. Daniels later expressed regret over how he handled the situations.

After Washington continued to stick with Young, despite his declining defense and a long slump during the Rangers' historic 2012 late-season collapse, Young eventually accepted a trade to Philadelphia where he's hitting .278 with seven home runs and 31 RBIs.

At a press conference announcing the trade, Washington expressed his sadness upon seeing Young leave.

From The Dallas Morning News:

"This is a very, very tough situation,'' Washington said. "Michael's been my go-to guy since I've been here. He's done a lot in the form of leadership in the clubhouse, on the field and in the community. That's something we'll sorely miss. "He's such a professional. If there was crying in baseball, I guess I'd cry."