The San Francisco Giants are looking to gain some ground in the NL West as they continue to push for a playoff spot in the National League. With the trade deadline still six weeks away, the Giants got to work early, making a deal with the Texas Rangers on Thursday. According to Andrew Baggarly, Willie Calhoun has been traded to the Giants in exchange for outfielder Steven Duggar.

The Giants just played Luis Gonzalez on the 10-day IL on Thursday so it's a bit surprising that they'd opt to trade Duggar away. Duggar is just coming off his own IL stint and was expected to be reactivated soon, but instead will find himself heading to the Rangers.

Calhoun was just recently designated for assignment by the Rangers but went through waivers unclaimed. He had previously demanded a trade from the Rangers after struggling to log consistent at-bats this year. Now, the Giants are adding him to the mix in exchange for Duggar. This move enables the Giants to avoid adding Duggar back to the 40-man roster.

The Rangers DFA'd Spencer Patton in a corresponding move after acquiring Duggar. Calhoun will likely report to the Giants' minor league system and look to work his way back to the majors. The former Dodgers top prospect has never found his footing in the big leagues. His struggles on defense have also prevented him from locking down a full-time role.

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Despite being heralded as an elite offensive talent, Calhoun's bat never fully transitioned to MLB. In all, Calhoun has hit 32 home runs across 253 games, recording a career WAR of -1.6. This season he featured in 18 games, slashing .136/.283/.273 with just 1 home run and 2 RBI.

As for Duggar, the Rangers are getting back a solid defensive outfielder who could figure as a reliable depth piece. He featured in 107 games for the Giants last season, slashing .257/.330/.437 with 8 home runs and 35 RBI as well as 7 stolen bases.