In what is hopefully good news, Tom Hicks says it is up to Jon Daniels to decide what moves will be made this offseason.
However, we also have this snippet from the article:
Hicks says winning is about players, not payroll. Still, the Rangers need at least two starting pitchers, one or two relievers and an outfield bat, making increased payroll a virtual prerequisite for improvement.
It all comes back to what Hicks is willing to spend. If Hicks insists on a small-market payroll for what is a big-market team -- if he wants a $55-60 million payroll for the Rangers -- then the chances of competing next year are pretty slim.