The Rangers believe they have acquired the No. 1 starter who can be a difference-maker and have a huge impact in their quest to win their first division title since 1999.

And go beyond that.

The Rangers did so when they acquired left-handed pitcher Cliff Lee from the Mariners for first baseman Justin Smoak, Minor League pitchers Blake Beavan and Josh Lueke, and infielder Matt Lawson on Friday afternoon. The Rangers also acquired injured pitcher Mark Lowe in the deal and received $2.25 million in cash considerations.

"We haven't won anything yet, but we feel like we're in position to put our best foot forward to be competitive in our division and in the American League," Rangers general manager Jon Daniels said. "We said all along that if we could upgrade our club we would do so, and this gives us a few more pieces to play with."