Monday Morning Rangers Strikes

/

What if Yoan Moncada were to wait until mid-summer to sign with a team, and Texas was able to jump in on him? Have you ever thought about it?

  • Neftali Feliz apparently looked sharp in his first bullpen session. For what it's worth, I feel like the bullpen -- while mostly unheralded -- has an opportunity to be a real strength for the 2015 ball club. I'm not sure that's the popular opinion, but there it is.
     
  • Speaking of the bullpen, Michael Kirkman already finds himself at a disadvantage as far as earning a roster spot is concerned. In camp on a minor league deal, Kirkman is dealing with some shoulder soreness and will be sidelined for at least a week. Despite his command problems, the Rangers have been patient with Kirkman because they love his makeup. Now, they'd be thrilled if he were able to finally deliver something tangible on the field, and apparently want to be cautious with one of the only left-handed relievers in camp.
     
  • Ryan Rua will be focusing on left field during Spring Training. As has been mentioned before, he appears to be the "favorite" to win the job.
     
  • Yu Darvish threw this weekend, and his elbow is fine. Unless you were of the belief that Yu Darvish should have been pitching unless his arm was shattered to pieces, this is likely not news to you. However, if you really believe that Darvish "quit" in 2014, then I suppose this is a revelation of sorts, in some sick and twisted way.
     
  • Joey Gallo is focusing on playing 3rd base right now, and Jeff Banister doesn't expect that to change during Spring Training.
     
  • The Rangers don't want Adrian Beltre's potential 2016 roster option to be hanging around all season. Given that his contract has been a huge win for the organization -- especially at how many claimed it was awful because, "Hey, Scott Boras client" -- it wouldn't be too surprising if Texas looks for a way to make sure that Beltre retires a Ranger and eventually goes in the Hall of Fame wearing a Texas "T". He may not be able to keep playing forever, but I don't think Texas wants him playing anywhere else, either.