Texas Rangers

SURPRISE, Arizona – It has only been two days since Texas Rangers pitchers and catchers reported to Spring Training, which means we already have plenty to discuss. Let’s get started!

INJURY REPORT:

Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

On Sunday Anthony Andro of FOX Sports Southwest reported (via Twitter) that left-handed relief pitcher Michael Kirkman will miss a few days due to a “shoulder impingement.” The non-roster invitee spent most of 2014 with Round Rock Express (AAA) where he compiled a record of 5-5 with an ERA of 4.47 over 36 games before being called up on September 2.

Kirkman finished the season 0-1 with an ERA of 1.59 over 5.2 innings with Texas. His longest outing over the 12 games was 1.0 innings. With Kirkman out that leaves the Rangers with only two lefties in the bullpen – Martire Garcia and Alex Claudio.

On Friday, Gerry Fraley of The Dallas Morning News reported that the club is looking at Phil Coke as a possibility to fill the void in the bullpen. That really doesn’t leave me with warm fuzzy feelings for the bullpen. Let’s hope that Kirkman’s injury doesn’t turn into something more major, and that JD can miraculously find some left-handed relief for the pen.

ALL ABOUT BELTRE:

Adrian Beltre reported to Spring Training four days early and it seems as though there was one question on everyone’s mind “Will Beltre play for the Texas Rangers in 2016?” Really? I mean, let’s slow things down a bit for him. He JUST arrived! However, now that I know Jon Daniels’ answer I’m happy that the question was asked.

Oh, you actually want to know what was said?

According to several tweets, Texas Rangers fans have zero to worry about when it comes Adrian Beltre finishing his career in Texas.

Rangers GM Jon Daniels: We would like Adrian to finish his career as a Ranger.
— Anthony Andro (@aandro) February 22, 2015

Jon Daniels says he doesn't want Adrian Beltre's option to be an on-going storyline this season and #Rangers could remedy that soon.
— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilsonTXR) February 22, 2015

Jon Daniels says it's possible #Rangers pick up Adrian Beltre's option, taking vesting clause off table. Needs 586 PAs for 2016 to vest.
— Jeff Wilson (@JeffWilsonTXR) February 22, 2015

The fact that all of the beat writers are saying the same thing makes me confident that this will actually get done soon, even if Beltre fails to reach the required 586 plate appearances. I see no reason why any Rangers fan would NOT want him on our team.

Next: Maddux Said What?

Texas Rangers

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