Colby Lewis to start in the minors

The Texas Rangers are now in need of an Opening day starter after Yu Darvish was scratched. They haven’t announced a replacement yet, but Colby Lewis. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Surprise, Ariz – The Texas Rangers are now in need of an Opening day starter after Yu Darvish was scratched.  They haven’t announced a replacement yet, but Colby Lewis will not be it.  The Rangers have announced that Lewis still be sent to the minors and will pitch in the Round Rock Express/Frisco Rough Riders exhibition game.  That game will be held in Frisco, Texas, which is near the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

Before he is sent to minors, Lewis will get one more start today with the Rangers.  He has been progressing well and all signs point that he’ll make the 25-man roster at some point.

Jon Daniels and the pitching staff want to see Colby Lewis to continue to build his endure and velocity.  If all goes well for Lewis today and the exhibition game he could return as early as April 6th.

In my opinion, if Yu Darvish is able to return, they will not rush Lewis to return that quickly. Colby Lewis needs 2 or 3 starts in the minors to work on his velocity and endurance.  But, you have to give a lot of credit to Lewis for his hard work and determination on his comeback bid.  He hasn’t had the best spring training, largely due to him over coming his hip resurfacing surgery.  Lewis said his delivery needs some work because discomfort is now gone.  Also, he probably has better movement in his hip.  Once he makes his adjustments, he should be ready for the season.

 Spring training stats

• 3 starts
• 4.0 innings
• 18.00 ERA
• 8 earned runs
• 2 strike outs
• 6 walks