The non-waiver trade deadline has passed, but not before the Texas Rangers traded for starting right-handed pitcher Ryan Dempster and catcher Geovany Soto -- both from the Chicago Cubs.

PODCAST
GM Jon Daniels explains the focus on the pitching staff in regard to the trade deadline and how the Rangers snagged Ryan Dempster. Listen

Each's first start is scheduled to be as battery mates Thursday in the final game of the series against the Los Angeles Angels. In addition to the anticipation of their Rangers/American League debuts, one can look forward to seeing how this ballclub continues to improve in the final two months of the regular season.

There are a couple significant ways the Rangers can improve at this point, and those methods include via waivers or their minor league system.

"The last two years we've added some nice pieces: Jeff Francoeur, obviously, and then Mike Gonzalez in 2011. Both guys had some big roles for us down the stretch and into the playoffs," general manager Jon Daniels said about trades via waivers. "We're going to be out there looking. It's unusual to find an everyday player, a starting pitcher, but you can find some quality role players or relief pitchers out there. And we will keep our eyes open."

How about from within the organization? Third baseman/first baseman Mike Olt was often mentioned in trade rumors, but he was not dealt. He is thriving at Double-A Frisco with an OPS of .973 along with 27 home runs and 81 RBIs. He also played in the Futures All-Star Game in Kansas City earlier this season.

The Rangers have not yet acquired an experienced right-handed bat to come off the bench, but maybe they will go with Olt in the next couple months.

"I wouldn't rule it out, but I couldn't put a percentage on it," Daniels said. "He's doing a nice job where he is right now."

Daniels was a guest on Rangers Baseball Tonight before Tuesday's game on the Texas Rangers ESPN Radio Network. Daniels also discussed the importance of making a move, working with Cubs front office members Theo Epstein andJed Hoyer, why trade for Dempster and Soto, Dempster's 10-5 rights (10 years in MLB and five with the same club), the topic of "untouchable" prospects and more. Listen to the podcast.