Joe Saunders pitches in B game

Sep 21, 2013; Anaheim, CA, USA; (Editors note: Caption correction) Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Joe Saunders (23) pitches against the Los Angeles Angels during the second inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

March 7, Surprise, Az – New Texas Rangers left-handed pitcher Joe Saunders pitched in today’s ‘B’ game.  Saunders got in 2 innings work against the Kansas City Royals.

Saunders didn’t allow any runs over 33 pitches and recorded one strike out against Mike Moustakas.  The next step for Saunders is to pitch in a regular game.

"“I feel like I should,” Saunders said. “I felt great out there. It was fun to get the cobwebs out.” (Dallas News – Gerry Fraley)"

Saunders and the Rangers made the contract official this past Wednesday.  With his new contract, Saunders can earn up to $3.65 million plus award bonuses.

Joe Saunders Career Stats

• 9 seasons
• 221 starts
• 1344.1 innings
• 89-81 record
• 4.30 ERA
• 769 strikeouts

Joe Saunders 2013 Stats

• 32 starts
• 183 innings
• 11-16 record
• 5.26 ERA
• 107 strikeouts
• .214 batting average against LH
• .337 batting average against RH

No official word yet when Joe Saunders will pitch again.  But I would expect him to start next Wednesday against the Los Angeles Angels on March 12.  Hopefully he will continue to pitch well and be able to help the Rangers with the starting rotation.