Notes: Roster spot for Gonzalez?

04/01/2005
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Ideally, the Rangers hoped David Dellucci would serve as the club's left-handed hitting designated hitter while Greg Colbrunn would do the same from the right side of the batter's box, in addition to providing depth at the corner infield positions.
Realistically, Colbrunn is likely headed to the disabled list because of a sore wrist. That gives Adrian Gonzalez a good chance of making the team, which would give the Rangers two left-handed hitting designated hitters.
"Tomorrow, we'll make the call," Rangers general manager John Hart said. "Obviously, we love Adrian and he's doing a great job for us. We'll wait and see what transpires between now and then. It's going to be [manager] Buck [Showalter's] call."
This spring, Gonzalez is hitting .382 with two home runs and 20 RBIs in 27 games. On Friday against the Rockies at Isotopes Park, he went 3-for-4 with two RBIs.
"I have just been having fun and enjoying it, trying to put together good at-bats and swing at good pitches," Gonzalez said. "I've had a good spring so far. I think I am ready, but it is not my decision and I'll respect whatever decision they make."
Last season, Gonzalez hit better against left-handed hitters (.319 average) than right-handed pitchers (.298) at Triple-A Oklahoma, a fact that works in his favor. The club is optimistic he can have a similar success on the Major League level whenever he joins the big league squad, but there naturally exists some degree of the unknown. Gonzalez hit just .238 in 16 games with the Rangers in 2004. Facing minor league left-handed pitching is not the same as facing big league left-handed pitching, either.
Moreover, the Rangers are concerned about having two left-handed hitters on the bench. The club could add right-handed hitter Chad Allen to the 25-man roster, but it would have to create a spot for him on the 40-man roster. The Rangers already have to create a spot for infielder Mark DeRosa, who made the team Thursday.
The ailing Colbrunn is not a candidate to be taken off the 40-man roster, partly because of his history of success and partly because his injured wrist has left the Rangers unable to evaluate him properly.
"Of course, if we do go with Adrian, something everybody knows we are strongly considering, the only issue is that there is not a right-handed guy to protect him," Hart said. "It's going to force one of our left-handed hitters to be a little bit naked. We are a little unbalanced off the bench if that's the case."
The Rangers have not ruled out bringing in a right-handed hitter from outside of the organization, but Hart said such an acquisition was unlikely.
"Let me put it this way: There are not a lot of frontline big bats out there at this time," Hart said.
Gonzalez hit .304 with 12 home runs and 88 RBIs in 457 at-bats for the RedHawks last season, and has a career batting average of .289 with 51 home runs in 2,152 minor league at-bats. The Rangers believe if Gonzalez does make the club as a designated hitter, it will not have an adverse affect on his development as an all-around Major League first baseman.
The club's confidence in his defensive ability is important, considering what could be minimal playing time at first. Last season, incumbent first baseman Mark Teixeira, the Silver Slugger award winner, played in 145 games. This came on the heels of a 146-game season in 2003, when he took over the job from Rafael Palmeiro. Teixeira has steadily grown more comfortable at the position and has grown weary of the endless speculation about a possible move to the outfield.
"[Gonzalez is] already a double-plus first baseman and that's not an issue," Hart said. "The question is that it is difficult for a young player to break in the big leagues in that DH role, especially without protection. That's the struggle there."
"Adrian is strong and mentally tough," Hart continued. "He has a lot of confidence in himself, and I don't worry about what-ifs if he does make the team. We know it's a tough spot to put a young guy in, especially without a lot of protection, but there is also the thought that when you have a good player, you try to do all the right things you can. When opportunity knocks, sometimes it's not the perfect scenario. But again, we are not there yet."
Rogers rolls: Rangers starter Kenny Rogers allowed six hits and two runs in five innings against the Rockies on Friday. He did not walk a batter and struck out two.
"Kenny was being Kenny," Showalter said. "I've said many times that he comes in and he knows what it takes to get ready. I trust him and I think he is getting ready to pitch well and give us a chance to win."
Rogers is scheduled to pitch the second game of the season against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim on April 6 and in the club's home opener on April 11, also against the Angels.
He said it! "It's not a perfect club, but there are a lot of good things that are going on. That's why we play the games. I like the players and I like the makeup of the guys and how we are going to do it. Obviously, I have great confidence in my manager and my coaches and the job they can do. Let's see how it plays out." -- Hart
Around the horn: In addition to Gonzalez, the Rangers are also pondering the final two available spots in the bullpen. Brian Shouse, Nick Regilio, R.A. Dickey, Erasmo Ramirez and Vladimir Nunez are all candidates. Ramirez was sent back to Phoenix because of discomfort on the middle finger on his pitching hand and is a candidate for the disabled list. Nunez faces an extra challenge because he is not on the 40-man roster. ... The Rangers will fly to San Francisco following Saturday's game against the Diamondbacks in Albuquerque for an exhibition game against the Giants at SBC Park. The club will head immediately to Anaheim following the contest. ... The Rangers will broadcast the weekend games on Fox Sports Net. KRLD will broadcast Sunday's game on the radio. ... The club has 35 players on this trip and 37 players on the Spring Training roster, including six non-roster players.
Coming up: The Rangers wrap up the trip in Albuquerque on Saturday against the Diamondbacks with Chris Young (1-2, 3.86 ERA ) on the mound at Isotopes Park. Shawn Estes (0-4, 6.00) is scheduled to take the mound for Arizona.

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

Rangers rally past Diamondbacks

04/02/2005
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- The Rangers and Diamondbacks played 7 1/2 innings of tight, well-pitched baseball Saturday before the Rangers broke open a one-run game in the seventh, scoring four runs on five hits and a walk to propel themselves to a 7-4 victory.
Both teams staged a game-long assault on center field, with the Diamondbacks leading the charge in the top of the first inning. Royce Clayton drove a single to center, and Luis Gonzalez got a two-base error on a low liner to center fielder Gary Matthews Jr. Troy Glaus wasted no time putting the D-Backs on the scoreboard, clearing the bases with his third home run in three days, a three-run shot deep into the left-field picnic area.
Matthews redeemed himself in the second, robbing Craig Counsell of a hit as he dove forward to catch a quickly sinking flare to center. It was one of two defensive gems in the game, with Arizona's Alex Cintron delivering the other on a leaping throw from deep in the hole at short to rob Michael Young of a single.
The Rangers created a run in the bottom of the second to get in the game when Kevin Mench reached base on a throwing error from Glaus, stole second, advanced to third on a Matthews grounder, and scored on another grounder from Sandy Alomar Jr.
Gonzalez launched a solo shot for the Diamondbacks in the third inning; the ball landed halfway up the grass seating area in right field. Mench countered with a two-run shot into left in the fourth inning to bring the Rangers within a run. The 4-3 score stood for the next 3 1/2 innings.
The Rangers finally broke ahead in the bottom of the eighth after pinch-hitter David Dellucci led off the inning with a walk. Cody Ransom kept the rally going with a single to center, and Chad Allen drove them both home with a double down the left-field line.
The Rangers scored twice more in the inning, once on a ground-rule RBI double from Laynce Nix that bounced over the fence after hitting the centerfield hill, and held the D-Backs scoreless in the ninth to secure the win.

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

Notes: Riley delivers in debut

04/02/2005
ALBUEQUERQUE, N.M. -- Newly acquired left-hander Matt Riley seized his first opportunity to pitch in a game for the Rangers on Saturday against the Diamondbacks and responded with two scoreless innings.
"When you consider all the things that have gone on in this young's man life the last few days, I was impressed with him," Rangers manager Buck Showalter said. "He's a strong athletic young man who has already seemed to struck a good chord with everybody here, and I'm excited to have him. His background and his potential is something I feel really good about."
Riley, a starter-turned-reliever, did not allow a hit while walking one batter and striking out another to earn the win in the Rangers' 7-4 victory. He was traded to the Rangers from the Orioles along with minor league catcher Keith McDonald for Ramon Nivar earlier this week after never fitting in with Baltimore's plans.
"The fresh face in a fresh place thing goes a long way for me," Riley said. "It was time for a change, and it was a great change for me. ... There's still a lot of work to be done, but it was a good start."
Also in the game, Ron Mahay allowed one hit in two scoreless innings, and Ryan Bukvich struck out one batter and allowed no hits in one scoreless inning. Bukvich is 0-1 with a 5.03 ERA in 14 1/3 innings this spring, which could be good enough for him to join Carlos Almanzar, Doug Brocail, Francisco Cordero, Mahay, Riley and Brian Shouse in the big league bullpen this season. R.A. Dickey (2-1, 8.68 ERA) appears poised to garner a spot in the 'pen, too, as the long reliever.
Both Bukvich and Dickey have minor league options remaining.
"[Bukvich] is really starting to grasp some things, and they are starting to show up in the games," Showalter said. "His arm strength is better. His command is down in the zone. He has made a lot of strides. ... He has shown that he could potentially help us this year."
In addition to the possible naming of Bukvich and Dickey to the 25-man roster, the remainder of the pitching staff includes a starting rotation made up of Ryan Drese, Kenny Rogers, Chris Young, Chan Ho Park and Pedro Astacio, who will join the team on April 9 for a start. First baseman Adrian Gonzalez has made a strong case for spot on the 25-man roster as a designated hitter, but the Rangers will not make a formal announcement regarding the roster until Sunday.
Reliever Erasmo Ramirez, who is feeling discomfort in the middle finger of his pitching hand, appears headed to the disabled list and out of the running for the remaining bullpen spots.
He said it: "It's been great so far, and I really like my teammates. Everything is great, health-wise, and I am hoping for a big year." -- Rangers right fielder Richard Hidalgo
A final tune-up: Young allowed four runs on four hits, two of them homers, in four innings Saturday and is on track to start the third game of the season against the Angels in Anaheim.
"It wasn't my best, and it wasn't my worst," Young said. "I gave up four runs on two pitches with the two home run balls. If I execute those pitches a little better, it could have been a better result."
Young walked one batter and struck out four in weather conditions that favored the hitters, which pleased Showalter.
"Obviously, it's a difficult time to pitch, and I thought he succeeded and got his pitch count where he needed to," Showalter said. "He got his work in. His slider continues to improve."
Around the horn: Pitcher Joaquin Benoit, who has been bothered by a sore shoulder the entire spring, is likely headed to the disabled list. ... Greg Colbrunn, who has been bothered by a sore wrist, took batting practice and will play in minor league games on Monday and Wednesday. ... Frank Francisco (sore right elbow) will pitch in a simulated game Wednesday. ... The Rangers released minor leaguers Tobin Swope, Chris Alexander, Jeff Waldron, Francis De Los Santos and Willy Espinal.
Coming up: The Rangers wrap up the spring season in San Francisco with Park (0-0, 6.29 ERA) on the mound against Jerome Williams (2-1, 8.78). The Rangers will have a day off on Monday before starting the regular season against the Los Angeles Angels on Tuesday in Anaheim.

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

It may be mix 'n' match for Nix, Matthews

04/02/2005
ALBUEQUERQUE, N.M. -- As of Saturday, the Rangers were not ready to name Laynce Nix as the starting center fielder for Tuesday's season opener against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, but they were not ready to say he would not be on the field for the first pitch, either.
The same could be said/not said for switch-hitting outfielder Gary Matthews Jr.
"I've got two guys who are capable of doing a good job for us -- really, three," Rangers manager Buck Showalter said. "I don't know if I came into this looking for somebody to separate themselves as much as to make them continue to think they can do a good job for us. Both of them can play all three positions above average."
"Average" is a good way to describe Nix's spring. Coming into Saturday's action, the left-handed hitting outfielder was 13-for-69 with two home runs and five RBIs. Last season, Nix hit .248 with 20 doubles and 14 home runs in 371 at-bats during 115 regular season games. He hit .176 against left-handed pitchers and .266 against right-handed pitchers.
Nix delivered a two-run double in Saturday's 7-4 victory against the Diamondbacks.
"I have not had great numbers this spring," Nix said. "[Rangers hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo] and I have been working on some things and I have not gotten a lot of hits, but I feel like I have put together some good at-bats and I'll just continue to grind on some things I'm working on.
"It's pretty apparent the results are not good for the spring, but at some point you have to look past that a little bit. Even last year, I didn't know what my numbers were. I didn't know what the numbers were this year until yesterday."
Despite the slow spring, Nix remains confident in his ability to hit and play center field on the big league level. Last spring was a bigger challenge because he had to prove he could play defense, he said.
The challenge this spring comes from his good friend Matthews.
"I've tried not to take on any extra challenges," Nix said. "I'm just trying to see the ball and hit it. For whatever reason, I have not had a lot of balls fall. I have hit a lot of balls hard, and I've had some bad at-bats, too. I haven't sweated it. I feel good going into this last week and going into the season."
As for Matthews, he was 23-for-60 coming into Saturday, with four doubles, four triples and two home runs in 60 at-bats. On Saturday, he added a bunt for a single in the fourth inning. On defense, he made spectacular diving catch on a sinking line drive in the second inning.
"I came in here to get ready to play and to get prepared to play 162 games," Matthews said. "I don't think anybody comes in thinking they want to play 80 games. My goal was to be consistent and work on some things with Rudy and build on what we established last year."
Matthews boasted a .275 batting average in 87 games for the Rangers last season, hitting .244 against lefties and .289 against right-handed pitchers, and showed the club he can play multiple positions. Overall, he has a .247 batting average in 1,692 career Major League at-bats with the Cubs, Pirates, Mets, Orioles, Padres and Rangers.
Comfortable in the clubhouse and on the field, Matthews appears to have found a home in the Texas organization.
"I have had that happen with three or four players over the years, like Luis Gonzalez," Showalter said. "Different guys figure it out at different times. Some guys, it's [age] 24; sometimes it's [age] 28 -- especially with Latin players in winter ball, because they play so much. Sometimes, all a guy needs is repetition. Gary got a lot of reps last year, and he got a lot of reps this spring."
Regardless of who starts Tuesday, both will likely see significant playing time in center field. Matthews could spell Nix against left-handed pitchers, and Nix could play against right-handers, but it is not far-fetched to imagine both playing in the outfield at the same time, with one in center field and the other in left or right.
Nix could also see action as a designated hitter with Matthews in the outfield, but Showalter is not fond of that option because it limits his options off the bench.
"[Nix] has done well the last couple of weeks and played a good center field for us. Hopefully, he will build on last year and be better," Showalter said. "He showed a lot of things last year that made us think he can do that job. ... The one constant is that he did play a solid center field for us."
Showalter added that Matthews appears on track to be an everyday player in the future. Whether Matthews accomplishes that feat with the Rangers or another organization is to be determined.
"I came in here to eliminate any doubt about me playing every day," Matthews said. "I came in here to make a statement, because you don't know who is out there watching. A lot of times you create opportunities by the way you play and your approach. I didn't want to leave any questions out there."

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

Giants' rally cuts down Rangers

04/03/2005
SAN FRANCISCO -- Pedro Feliz went 3-for-3 with a pair of doubles and Edgardo Alfonzo had two RBIs as the San Francisco Giants picked up a 7-4 win over the Texas Rangers on Sunday at SBC Park in the exhibition season finale.
The Giants trailed, 3-2, entering the sixth but converted five hits and a walk into five runs, upping their record to 20-12-1 and tying the record set by the 1987 club for the most spring victories in San Francisco history.
Texas' record fell to 13-19.
Giants starter Jerome Williams went five innings, giving up three runs on seven hits, including Michael Young's third spring homer in the third.
In the second frame, David Dellucci tripled and scored on Rod Barajas' double, while Andres Torres walked and came home on Alfonso Soriano's two-bagger.
Chan Ho Park pitched five innings for Texas, allowing five hits, with Feliz scoring on a grounder by Alfonzo in the fourth and Mike Matheny doubling and scoring on Omar Vizquel's infield out an inning later.
Feliz hit two doubles and finished the spring with a .405 batting average and 14 RBIs.
He started the sixth-inning rally with a triple, followed by Michael Tucker's double and Alfonzo's run-scoring hit. Two runs scored on an error by Rangers shortstop and former Giant Cody Ransom.
The winning pitcher was reliever Jason Christiansen (1-1), while Francisco Cordero (0-1) took the loss.

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

Notes: Allen lands final outfield spot

04/03/2005
SAN FRANCISCO -- Before their final exhibition game against the Giants, the Rangers announced their 25-man roster for Opening Day, and the list contained one unexpected move.
Outfielder Laynce Nix will not be with Texas for Tuesday's opener in Anaheim, as the Rangers instead tabbed Chad Allen as their fifth outfielder.
Nix, a 24-year-old left-handed hitter, started a team-high 99 games in center for the Rangers last year, and his .996 fielding average was third among AL outfielders. He hit .248 with 14 homers and 46 RBIs in 371 at-bats in 2004, but this spring hit just .197 (14-for-71) with two homers and six RBIs.
Manager Buck Showalter said a number of factors went into the decision, including the belief that the switch-hitting Gary Matthews Jr. has earned the right to be the everyday center fielder and the desire of the team to stay away from a platoon situation in the outfield.
"We just felt like it was best for Laynce at this point to go down and get some consistent at-bats," Showalter said. "We didn't feel like it was in his best interest to platoon him up here right now."
Showalter also suggested Nix might not stay in Triple-A too long.
"He did some good things this spring and struggled in some others," Showalter said. "We think he's a big part of our future and we think it was in his best interest and in the best interest of the organization to have him start April down."
Allen, a right-handed 30-year-old, hit .344 (11-for-32) in Cactus League play this year with one homer and six RBIs. He spent most of last season in Triple-A, but appeared in 20 games in three different stints for Texas, hitting .241 (14-for-58).
"This guy did have heck of a year in Triple-A (.358, 7 HR, 70 RBIs)," Showalter said. "He earned the right to be here this year, and he gives some coverage against left-handed pitchers."
Nix was optioned to Oklahoma City, along with catcher Gerald Laird and right-hander Nick Regilio.
Texas also assigned infielders Cody Ransom and Ian Kinsler, outfielder Andres Torres, and RHPs Vlad Nunez and Keith Stamler to their minor league camp, and designated right-handers Travis Hughes and Agustin Montero for assignment.
"They're all tough," Showalter said of making the final cuts. "You're dealing with people's lives, and I think, unfortunately, people look at it as some finality, but what's best for our organization at the start of the year changes as the season goes on."
Five Rangers begin the year on the disabled list: RHP Pedro Astacio (groin); RHP Joaquin Benoit (shoulder); RHP Frank Francisco (elbow); LHP Erasmo Ramirez (finger); and INF Greg Colbrunn (right wrist). The pitchers' DL stays are retroactive to March 25; Colbrunn's to March 29.
Bereavement leave: Carlos Almanzar learned late Saturday night his mother had died, and Sunday left the team to join his grieving family in the Dominican Republic.
"I talked to Carlos this morning a couple of times and he is obviously pretty distraught," Showalter said.
Almanzar, a right-handed reliever, was placed on the bereavement list, where the Rangers can replace him on the 25-man roster for three to seven days. Showalter said Almanzar will be out an undetermined amount of time, but definitely will miss Opening Day.
The Rangers recalled Regilio from Triple-A Oklahoma to fill the roster spot.
The new DH: One of the players who survived the final cut is Adrian Gonzalez, a former No. 1 draft choice of the Florida Marlins who came to the Rangers in a 2003 trade.
Gonzalez, 22, is a left-handed hitter who hit .392 (31-for-79) this spring, with two homers and 22 RBIs, including one on a run-scoring double Sunday.
"I'm pretty happy with what I did this spring," Gonzalez said. "The things we worked on I felt like I accomplished and I've gotten a lot out of it. I had really good at-bats and I feel pretty good."
Gonzalez's gain may be David Dellucci's loss. Showalter said Gonzalez will be the DH on Opening Day, and hinted that although Dellucci, Allen, Sandy Alomar Jr. and Mark DeRosa will get their at-bats, the rookie may get the lion's share.
"I'm just prepared for anything," said Dellucci, a seven-year veteran. "During the course of my years in the big leagues I've been able to do well in different roles so I feel very confident whatever role that I'm in I will work my hardest and do my best."
They did play a game: The Rangers lost, 7-4, to the Giants to finish this preseason with a record of 13-19.
Chan Ho Park, who gave up 10 runs in 10 2/3 innings over his previous two starts, regained his form and left Sunday's game after five innings with a 3-2 lead. He scattered five hits with no walks and no strikeouts.
"I felt pretty good," Park said. "I was keeping the ball down better and working inside to right-handers."
Park lost his chance for a win in the sixth, when the Giants scored four runs off Francisco Cordero and another off Doug Brocail.
The Rangers got their first three runs off Giants starter Jerome Williams, scoring on a pair on RBI doubles in the second by Rod Barajas and Alfonso Soriano and another when Michael Young led off the third with his only preseason home run.

Source: http://mlb.mlb.com/

Mailbag: Teixeira will come at a price

11/07/2005
After closing the book on the 2005 season, the Rangers are plotting their course for 2006. Join in as Texas fans fire away with their questions about the season that just ended and the season on the horizon.
How much of an effort will the Rangers make to sign Mark Teixeira? Does [general manager] Jon Daniels have any kind of past history with Scott Boras? -- Steve I., Plano, Texas
That's the million-dollar question, or more specifically, millions of dollars question. I believe the Rangers will make a strong attempt to sign Teixeira to a long-term deal. He is one of the faces of the franchise, and, in my opinion, will be one of the faces Major League Baseball uses to promote the game now and in the future. He's also one of the best all-around players in the game. Teixeira is rich. He's young and he's only going to get more rich in his career so that leads me to believe it is going to take more than money to sign him to a long-term deal with the Rangers. He could be looking for what he believes is a commitment to winning and a harmonious relationship between the players and management. If he does not see the Rangers winning in the foreseeable future, I do not see him making a long-term commitment despite any efforts the Rangers make. All Teixeira has to do is look to Alex Rodriguez, also represented by Boras, for an example of a player who picked the best money over the best winning chance. Daniels is a capable negotiator and a fair man. He will give the Rangers a legitimate shot at signing Teixeira. There are numerous factors, but make no mistake, money is the biggest.
How do you see the catching position shaping up with Gerald Laird's return? -- Troy H.
Rod Barajas is the starting catcher for 2006. He not only deserves the recognition, he earned it. That said, Laird could still be in the plans for the future. Rangers fans have only seen glimpses of what Laird can do on the field and it appears he has a lot more to offer than what has been shown. The Rangers like their depth at the catching position and Laird's development can only help that. He will start the season as Barajas' backup or in Triple-A. He won't be happy with either choice and it will be interesting to see how he responds -- either with frustration or winning the big league job outright.
What about Richard Hidalgo? Will he be back? -- Mich D., Stephenville, Texas
Hidalgo had arguably the most disappointing season of his career. He was plagued by an inconsistent swing and approach during the start of the season and a wrist injury in the end. The Rangers are more likely to give another player the opportunity in right field. Do not look for Hidalgo to return.
Will the Rangers try to go after Randy Winn or Johnny Damon? I think they need a leadoff hitter hitting in front of Michael Young. -- Matt, Plano, Texas
Damon could be out of the club's price range and there will be several questions that arise if the club chooses to spend a lot of money on the leadoff hitter instead of adding pitching. The Rangers, like any team, could use Damon. Yes, they need a legitimate leadoff hitter -- although David Dellucci was sufficient -- but there are other holes to fill. Winn could be an interesting option, but getting him would require a trade with the Giants, who picked up Winn's 2006 option. Again, the Rangers need pitching and adding more offense to one of the most potent lineups in baseball will raise eyebrows. That is, unless the Rangers go to a "small-ball" style of play and use Winn to get on base and move runners by bunting. It would be a historic change in offensive philosophy. The Rangers do not appear to have the personnel to make such a switch at the moment.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Texas writers hand out awards

11/07/2005
American League batting champion Michael Young has been selected as the Rangers' Player of the Year in voting conducted by the Dallas-Fort Worth chapter of the Baseball Writers' Association of America.
Young won the AL batting title with a .331 average. He had 221 hits to lead the Major Leagues. It was the third consecutive year that Young has had more than 200 hits.
Veteran left-hander Kenny Rogers was selected Pitcher of the Year. Rogers finished 14-8 with a 3.46 earned run average. He received a second consecutive Rawlings Gold Glove award last week.
Right-hander Chris Young was tabbed as the Rookie of the Year after setting a Rangers rookie record with 12 victories. While finishing 12-7 with a 4.26 ERA, Young recorded a club-high 137 strikeouts.
The Harold McKinney Good Guy Award went to outfielder/designated hitter David Dellucci, who stood out on and off the field. Dellucci's Catch 22 for Blue Foundation has been dedicated to providing resources for those affected by the recent hurricanes.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Nadel, Lewin, Grieve are nominees

11/08/2005
Rangers fans have the opportunity through the month of November to help put present or past local broadcasters on a path toward Cooperstown, N.Y.
Online voting for the 2006 Ford. C. Frick Award began on Nov. 1, with fans getting the chance to cast votes for up to three baseball broadcasters, exclusively at www.baseballhalloffame.org. In this manner, fans can contribute to part of the final ballot that will be considered in a final vote, which sends one current or retired broadcaster to receive the award at next summer's Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Cooperstown.
This year's ballot includes longtime Rangers radio voice Eric Nadel, television play-by-play man Josh Lewin and television analyst Tom Grieve.
Nadel has been with the Rangers for 27 years, serving as the lead radio voice the last 11 seasons. His tenure is longer than any announcer in the history of the franchise. Nadel worked in television and radio from 1979-81, then teamed with the late Mark Holtz for the next 13 years on radio while also doing televised games in 1984.
Nadel is a two-time selection (1999 and 2001) as the Texas Sportscaster of the Year, an award given by the National Sportswriters and Sportscasters Association. He was elected to the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame in 1991.
Lewin has been involved in Major League Baseball broadcasting for 11 years, the last four as the Rangers television play-by-play man. He continues to work national games for the FOX Saturday Game of the Week.
Lewin called Tigers games on Fox Sports Net in Detroit from 1998 through 2001. Previously, he was a member of the Cubs television team and did radio games for the Orioles iin 1995 and 1996. He broadcast both ALDS and NLDS playoff games for FOX in 2001 and 2002 and, in 2003, was a dugout reporter during the ALDS and NLCS.
Grieve has been the Rangers television analyst for 11 years. He was the club's vice president and general manager from 1984-94 and has been with the Washington/Texas franchise for nearly 34 of his 35 years in professional baseball. Grieve played in the Major Leagues from 1970-79.
Former Rangers announcers on the ballot include Bob Carpenter, Steve Busby, Vince Cotroneo, Merle Harmon, Norm Hitzges and Holtz.
Presented annually since 1978 for excellence in baseball broadcasting, the Ford C. Frick Award is given to an active or retired broadcaster with a minimum of 10 years of continuous Major League broadcast service with a ballclub, network or a combination of the two.
Fans have the opportunity to vote online for up to three of the 182 broadcasters eligible for consideration for the '06 award. Fans are allowed to vote once daily. Results will be announced when voting concludes on Nov. 30. The fans' selections, along with the full ballot of 10 candidates, will be announced on Dec. 5.
The final ballot will be comprised of three fan selections, along with seven other candidates determined by a Hall of Fame staff research team. The Frick electorate includes all living award winners and six historians appointed by the Hall of Fame.
Voters are asked to base their selections on the following criteria: longevity; continuity with a club; honors, including national assignments such as the World Series and All-Star Games; and popularity with fans.
Paper ballots will be cast by voting members each January and the final results will be announced on the Hall of Fame's Web site in February. Each voter will cast ballots for three candidates and the broadcaster with the most support will be named as that year's award winner and be honored next summer at the annual induction ceremony.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Blalock creates scholarship program

11/08/2005
ARLINGTON -- Hank Blalock is hitting a home run for an area student.
On Tuesday, the Rangers announced the Hank Blalock No. 9 All-Star Scholarship, a program created to financially assist one high school junior in the Arlington Independent School District who chooses to attend an institution of higher learning.
Blalock will donate a $10,000 scholarship to one student in 2005-2006 school year. The scholarship was created "in order for Blalock to give back to the Arlington community that supports the Rangers while providing an opportunity for an AISD junior to attend an institution of higher learning in pursuit of a chosen career."
"It was very important to me that the recipient of the scholarship be a high school junior," Blalock said. "I want this student to be able to go into their final year of high school knowing that they have the ability to take their education to the next level. This scholarship program allows me to make a difference in a student's life, and I am extremely honored to be a part of this process."
Students will be required to complete an application and submit an essay entitled "How the Hank Blalock Scholarship will help me in preparing for my future." The essay will account for 80 percent of the selection process. The remaining 20 percent will be based on school and community recommendations. A committee of nine representing each AISD high school campus will screen the applications and select five finalists. Blalock will then personally pick the winner from those 45 applicants. The deadline for submission is February 24, 2006.
The recipient of the scholarship and his/her parents will be invited to a Texas Rangers day game followed by dinner with Blalock. He will personally present the scholarship during dinner.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Rangers taking aim at the mound

11/09/2005
Two serviceable starting pitchers, two experienced relievers with nasty stuff and a speedy outfielder with leadoff capabilities.
If the Rangers were making a complete wish list for the offseason, all those ingredients might be mentioned. But like the kid who sits on Santa's lap and goes on and on about what he wants for Christmas, there's an inner realism that only so many goodies can come your way. For Texas, the priority is stabilizing the starting rotation either through the free agent market or trades. If the Rangers can also find creative ways to bolster the bullpen or add a spark for the offense, so much the better.
First-year general manager Jon Daniels has been doing all the necessary due diligence work since the Rangers finished 79-83 in 2005, which was 10 games off their '04 pace. Armed with several marketable pieces and a financial commitment from owner Tom Hicks, Daniels will spend the winter looking to make the moves that can help boost the Rangers back into playoff contender status.
"You look at every opportunity," Daniels said. "I would say there are ways to improve."
The Rangers will take their shots in what many have termed a thin free agent market. They'll stand in line with many other clubs to talk money with free agent right-hander A.J. Burnett when it becomes permissible to do so beginning on Friday. Besides Burnett, the names of starting pitchers such as Kevin Millwood and Jarrod Washburn have come up in Rangers circles and there's another pool of starting pitching if Texas wants to consider Matt Morris, Paul Byrd, Esteban Loaiza, Shawn Estes, Brett Tomko, Jason Johnson, Scott Elarton, Tony Armas Jr., Joe Mays, Al Leiter or even Jamie Moyer.
If the Rangers can't get the pitching they want from the free agent market, they can look more at the trade options. While Texas isn't looking to move an established position player, it realizes that one or more trades may be necessary to improve the pitching.
Daniels said the Rangers received a gauge last July around the trade deadline of how much market value there is with the Texas inventory of talent.
"Industry-wise, at the deadline, you get a pretty good idea of who is highly coveted," Daniels said. "We've started to develop a group of players who have value."
Kevin Mench, Adrian Gonzalez, Alfonso Soriano and Hank Blalock are among the players who might bring significant pitching upgrades. Mench is arbitration eligible this winter and several teams have expressed interest. Gonzalez has been stuck behind All-Star first baseman Mark Teixeira and is now in the experimental process of determining whether he could move to a corner outfield spot. Soriano is entering the last year of his contract and could walk as a free agent after the 2006 season, although the Rangers would receive a high draft pick as compensation in that scenario. Blalock, a two-time All-Star, could probably bring the most value in a deal. He struggled against left-handed pitching with a .196 average in '05, but trading a young player with his hitting potential would represent a bold gamble.
If the Rangers can get consistent innings from their starting rotation and find a bargain or two in the bullpen market, they'll take their chances. While the offense could benefit from a speed merchant with a keen eye at the top of the lineup, the general sentiment is that the offense is good enough, provided that the pitching is decent. Adding another left-hander in the bullpen along the lines of a B.J. Ryan, Scott Eyre or Terry Mulholland could help give the Texas relief corps the type of pleasant lefty-righty blend that was evident in 2004.
"I don't think you could put the White Sox lineup against our lineup," Teixeira said, referring to the World Series champions. "I don't think it's even a comparison. But if you put a great pitching staff with a team that scores enough runs to win, you have the combination of a great team. We just want to bring the players in who can help us get to the playoffs. And then, who knows what could happen? We just want to get there. If we bring in a few more players who can make us better, we have a chance to do that."

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Littleton, Nickeas deliver in AFL

11/11/2005
The Arizona Fall League presented a good news, bad news scenario for the Texas Rangers.
Wes Littleton started to emerge as a legitimate prospect on the mound for the pitching-starved Rangers, while Mark Roberts faced trouble in each of his outings for the Grand Canyon Rafters. Mike Nickeas completed a dominating six-week stretch at the plate as Drew Meyer held down a spot in Texas' long-term plans.
Here's a look at how the Rangers' six prospects fared during their final week in the AFL:
RHP Wes Littleton -- The 23-year-old right-hander finished his AFL campaign on a high note, hanging up two scoreless innings against the Peoria Saguaros on Nov. 9. Littleton was one of Grand Canyon's more reliable pitchers, posting a 2-0 record and a 3.38 ERA to go with a .229 opponents' batting average.
LF Kevin Mahar -- Mahar bookended an otherwise slow week with solid performances against Surprise and Phoenix, respectively. He was 2-for-3 with a double and three RBIs last Saturday, then delivered a pair of doubles in the regular-season finale on Thursday.
RHP Nick Masset -- Masset saw no action this week and finished the AFL season with a 3-2 record and a 5.27 ERA.
2B Drew Meyer -- The scrappy 24-year-old had a productive night in the season finale, going 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored against the Phoenix Desert Dogs. Meyer finished the fall with a .306 average and 12 runs scored in 19 games.
C Mike Nickeas -- Texas' top catching prospect ended his season in near-perfect fashion, going 5-for-6 in his only two games of the week. On Monday against the Peoria Javelinas, he was 3-for-4 with a double, a home run and four RBIs. Nickeas ended up with a sparkling .425 average and 10 RBIs in just 14 AFL games.
RHP Mark Roberts -- Roberts joined the multitude of pitchers who are thankful the AFL is over. He surrendered five runs in each of his last two outings, lasting just 3 1/3 innings on Tuesday against Mesa. The patient Solar Sox reached him for eight hits and two walks, kicking his ERA up to 8.46.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Diamond throws another gem on Father's Day

11/10/2005
Thomas Diamond will definitely remember Father's Day 2005, a start that earned him the award for MiLB.com's Class A Best Single-Game Performance.
On June 19, the Bakersfield Blaze right-hander fell just a single short of pitching a perfect game and matched his career high with 14 strikeouts in a 9-0 blanking of the High Desert Mavericks.
That outing was reminiscent of the last time Diamond pitched on Father's Day in 2003, when he tossed a no-hitter in a summer league game.
"Before I went into the game, I was talking to my parents on the phone. My mom told me, 'Your dad won't accept anything but what you gave him last time you pitched on Father's Day,'" Diamond said. "I told him I'll see what I can do."
If not for a one-out third-inning single up the middle by Jared Price, Diamond would have given his father that gift. Price was immediately erased on a strikeout-pickoff double play.
Diamond cruised from there against one of the hottest-hitting teams in the California League. High Desert finished first in the league in hits, runs, homers and RBIs, but it only managed to hit four balls out of the infield that day. Warming up prior to the game, Diamond didn't think he had a gem in him.
"I really had to focus in on every pitch because I didn't have my stuff," Diamond said. "Before the game, I was throwing in the bullpen, and I was like, 'If I throw like this, I'm going to get my butt handed to me.' But those are usually the days when things work out the best for you because you do focus in more and every pitch you are locked in."
Diamond's start also acted as a springboard, raising his record his record to 8-0 and lowering his ERA to 1.99, earning him a promotion to Double-A Frisco.
"I showed up at the field the next day and our coaches called me into the office and they said to go grab a ball off a locker," Diamond said. "The ball said Frisco and the date, which turned out to be my first start in Double-A."
It also helped the Texas Rangers' 2004 first-round pick deal with adversity in Frisco as he compiled a 5-4 record and a 5.35 ERA in 14 starts with the RoughRiders.
"I went back to that game any time I had struggles in Double-A," Diamond said. "I recalled those good moments to get through tough starts or a tough inning."
He also remembered a worthwhile suggestion from his father. "As soon as the game was over, I called my dad up and he said, 'You have to pitch on every Father's Day now.'"

Source: http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/

Mailbag: Rangers eye pitching help

11/14/2005
After closing the book on the 2005 season, the Rangers are plotting their course for 2006. In this week's mailbag, Texas fans fire away with questions about the season that just ended and the season on the horizon.
Will Ian Kinsler be in the Rangers' starting lineup next year? -- Cameron D., Dallas, Texas
That depends on whether the Rangers pull the trigger on a trade involving second baseman Alfonso Soriano during the offseason. Soriano, who is eligible for free agency after the 2006 season, has already been the source of several rumors during the recent GM meetings in California as the Rangers search for starting pitching.
Dealing Soriano would open the door for Kinsler, who added to an intriguing Minor League resume with a hot-hitting performance in the Cactus League last spring. Kinsler likely could stand a little more seasoning in the Minors, and there's always a question of whether a prospect's Minor League production will translate to success at the Major League level. But Kinsler is well thought of in the organization and will get his chance to burst onto the scene sooner or later. If Soriano leaves following the 2006 season, Kinsler likely would be the man at second base in 2007.
What's in store for utilityman Mark DeRosa? Is the organization going to keep him around? -- Sean B., New York, N.Y.
DeRosa is arbitration eligible, so the Rangers have control over that situation. Based on how DeRosa came on strong in the second half of the 2005 season and his ability to play three infield positions and the outfield, it's likely the club will explore trying to work out a one-year deal to avoid arbitration. DeRosa fit in well in the Rangers clubhouse and bided his time without complaint until increased playing time came his way.
If DeRosa wanted to be cut loose in order to pursue a starting job, the Rangers probably wouldn't stand in his way. But if DeRosa is receptive to another utility infield role with the possibility of getting into the lineup periodically as a right fielder against lefty pitching, it might be a nice fit.
Will the Rangers have a complete pitching staff to make them a contender in 2006? -- B.G.
They're working hard at trying to do just that. The Rangers would love to add two experienced starting pitchers via trades or free agency to a youthful mix that includes Chris Young, Kameron Loe and Juan Dominguez. They'll also revamp the bullpen with offseason acquisitions and the return of Frank Francisco from Tommy John surgery. The Rangers need to bridge the gap until guys like Thomas Diamond, John Danks and Edison Volquez reach full bloom. One or two good trades for pitching help and perhaps a judicious free agent signing could go a long way toward giving Texas a pitching staff that will make that homer-happy offense proud.
Does Kevin Mench have a future with the Rangers?-- Melissa C.
To get pitching help, the Rangers will have to give up something of value, and Mench is one of the players other clubs covet. The Royals are one team that likes Mench and needs a starting corner outfielder. Various reports have said Kansas City would be willing to give up left-hander Jeremy Affeldt, once considered a jewel in the Royals system, but not right-hander Zack Greinke. Mench's future with the Rangers will depend on whether someone makes Texas that proverbial offer it can't refuse.
Do you think John Wasdin will be back with the Rangers? Wasdin has been a good soldier in the Rangers' organization and the club appreciates what he has done. He accepts assignments to Triple-A Oklahoma with enthusiasm and has often bailed out the Rangers through emergency starts and an assortment of bullpen roles. There's a spot for decent veteran pitchers who can suppress their egos, as Wasdin has repeatedly done. If he wants to ride the Texas-Oklahoma shuttle again, the Rangers should offer him a ticket.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Hart chooses to stay with Rangers

11/14/2005
John Hart, the Rangers' newly named senior advisor for baseball operations, has decided he wants to keep that title for the foreseeable future.
After speaking recently with Dodgers owner Frank McCourt about that club's general manager vacancy, Hart made it official on Monday that he'll be staying with the Rangers. A Dodgers official termed the decision "mutual."
With Hart withdrawing from consideration for the Dodgers opening, the known GM candidates in Los Angeles are Dodgers assistant GM Kim Ng, Giants assistant GM Ned Colletti and former Boston GM Theo Epstein.
Hart stepped aside as Rangers GM shortly after the 2005 season, with Jon Daniels ascending from an assistant to the GM role.
"I want to thank Frank McCourt for the opportunity to speak with him regarding his opening," Hart said. "I enjoyed speaking with him. However, I have indicated to [Texas owner] Tom Hicks my desire to remain with the Rangers. Therefore, I am withdrawing my name from consideration for the general manager's job with the Dodgers."
Hicks had indicated all along that he thought Hart's desire was to stay with Texas.
"John has an important role here with the Rangers," Hicks said. "I want him as part of our team as we move forward and I am glad he has decided to stay with our organization."
The Rangers continue to wait for the Dodgers to resolve their GM opening so they'll know the status of pitching coach Orel Hershiser, who has been linked to the Dodgers as a possible managerial candidate or front-office executive once the new GM is named. Hershiser, who enjoyed an illustrious pitching career with the Dodgers, has indicated he would only leave if offered a higher-level position.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Rangers acquire Leicester from Cubs

11/16/2005
The Rangers continue to search high and low for pitching help. On Wednesday, they acquired right-hander Jon Leicester from the Cubs organization in a low-risk deal that they hope will eventually produce a significant reward.
Texas will give up a player to be named or cash for the 26-year-old Leicester.
"We are excited to add Jon to our organization," Rangers' general manager Jon Daniels said. "He is a player that has interested us in the past and gives us a quality option to help our Major League club."
Leicester has spent his entire six-year pro career with the Cubs organization since being drafted by Chicago in the 11th round of the 2000 First-Year Player Draft.
Leicester split the 2005 season between Chicago and Triple-A Iowa. He made the Cubs' Opening Day roster and went 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA in six games (one start) over four stints with the Major League club.
Overall, Leicester has gone 5-3 with a 4.80 ERA in 38 Major League games. With the addition of Leicester, the Rangers have 32 players on their 40-man roster.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Teixeira on the right track in Texas

11/17/2005
It has been quite an offseason for Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira, who is being saluted from all directions for his all-around play in 2005.
First, the Elias Sports Bureau crunched two-year numbers and tabbed Teixeira as the second-ranked player in Major League Baseball behind only Albert Pujols. Then Teixeira collected his second consecutive Silver Slugger award, followed by his first Gold Glove. And recently, Teixeira finished seventh in the American League Most Valuable Player balloting despite the fact that the Rangers slipped to a 79-83 record.
With Teixeira and shortstop Michael Young, who won an AL batting title and was 11th in the MVP balloting, the Rangers have two shining stars to lead the way. Teixeira's .301 batting average, 43 homers and 144 RBIs didn't really come as a surprise, based on the way he mashed the ball in the second half of 2004.
But for Teixeira to win a Gold Glove after making a conversion from third base to first base just a few years ago speaks volumes about his passion for becoming the best all-around ballplayer he can be.
Teixeira got the Gold Glove nod over smooth-fielding Angels first baseman Darin Erstad.
"I would have voted for Darin if I had a vote," Teixeira said. "He's a great defensive first baseman. He helps his team out in so many ways over there at first. So, to be able to unseat him as the Gold Glove winner is unexpected for me. And I can take a lot of pride in that."
From his time at the hot corner, Teixeira already knew how to range for a ground ball. At first base, he has applied himself to learn the footwork and overall techniques that are necessary to play great defense at that position.
"The easiest part about first base is catching a ground ball," Teixeira said. "The more difficult things about first base are working with your pitcher, working with your second baseman, making the plays around the bag. Not every throw is perfect. To be able to make a stretch or pick a ball out of the dirt can really be important factors for your team."
When the Rangers were talking with free agent first baseman Carlos Delgado last winter, Teixeira had expressed a willingness to move to a corner outfield spot if it meant Texas could improve its club. Those conversations don't come up any longer. With three arbitration seasons ahead of him before he could test free agency, the 25-year-old Teixeira is the Texas first baseman for the foreseeable future.
"My No. 1 goal playing baseball is to win," Teixeira said. "We were in a situation last year to maybe make our team better. I was willing to make a sacrifice to do that. But with what happened this year and the way I played defensively as well as offensively, I think I'm going to be a first baseman for the rest of my career."
Rangers general manager Jon Daniels has indicated that his busy offseason agenda will include conversations with Teixeira's agent, Scott Boras, about a possible long-term deal. While it has been Boras' general policy to have his top-tier clients test the free agent market, the Rangers have had control long enough to take their best shot at buying into Teixeira's arbitration years or seeking a deal that would lock in Teixeira through the bulk of his career.
In the meantime, the Rangers know they've got a first baseman who produces at the highest level both offensively and defensively and joins Young and some others as a leader in the Texas clubhouse.
"Michael Young is our team captain, whether he has a 'C' on his chest or not," Teixeira said. "I think Michael and I can both be leaders, as well as other players. I think it takes more than just one player to lead a team to a championship."

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Hershiser assumes role in front office

11/18/2005
Orel Hershiser won't be returning to the Dodgers after all.
After weeks of speculation that Hershiser might gravitate back to the city where he enjoyed the bulk of his illustrious pitching career, the Rangers announced Friday evening that Hershiser will move from pitching coach to the Texas front office. Hershiser's title of executive director, which will have him reporting to club president Jeff Cogen, will allow Hershiser to work with a variety of assignments that will enable him to know the organization from top to bottom.
Hershiser's role will focus on the sales and marketing departments of the organization. He will become part of the club's television and radio broadcasts for selected games and will also be available to assist the club's baseball operations office on an as-needed basis.
Hershiser, 47, had interviewed with the Dodgers regarding either a managerial or front office role.
"When I became pitching coach of the Rangers three years ago, I knew I was not going to be in that position for the long term," Hershiser said. "It is time for me to move on to other things in my life, and [Rangers owner] Tom Hicks has provided me an opportunity to stay in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and with the Rangers. I am looking forward to the challenges these new responsibilities will bring and helping the Rangers in any way possible."
Hicks expressed happiness that Hershiser will continue to work for the Texas organization.
"I am pleased Orel has decided to remain with the Texas Rangers," Hicks said. "He will be a valuable asset for us in all platforms of our business operations. I want to thank him for his years as pitching coach and look forward to working with him in his new role with the team."
With Hershiser's situation resolved, the Rangers were able to quickly fill out their coaching staff. Sticking with their basic philosophy of promoting from within, the Rangers will move Mark Connor from bullpen coach to pitching coach. The Atlanta Braves had made overtures toward Connor shortly after the 2005 season, but the Rangers were able to convince Connor to stay. Connor has been with manager Buck Showalter through tenures with the Yankees and Diamondbacks.
The Rangers are promoting Bobby Jones from Triple-A manager to first base coach in the wake of DeMarlo Hale's departure. Hale left recently to take a job as Boston's third base coach.
Dom Chiti, who has been the Rangers' director of player personnel since July 2004, will take Connor's place as bullpen coach. Don Wakamatsu (bench coach), Rudy Jaramillo (hitting coach) and Steve Smith (third base coach) will return to fill out Showalter's staff.

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Rangers taking aim at the mound

11/09/2005
Two serviceable starting pitchers, two experienced relievers with nasty stuff and a speedy outfielder with leadoff capabilities.
If the Rangers were making a complete wish list for the offseason, all those ingredients might be mentioned. But like the kid who sits on Santa's lap and goes on and on about what he wants for Christmas, there's an inner realism that only so many goodies can come your way. For Texas, the priority is stabilizing the starting rotation either through the free agent market or trades. If the Rangers can also find creative ways to bolster the bullpen or add a spark for the offense, so much the better.
First-year general manager Jon Daniels has been doing all the necessary due diligence work since the Rangers finished 79-83 in 2005, which was 10 games off their '04 pace. Armed with several marketable pieces and a financial commitment from owner Tom Hicks, Daniels will spend the winter looking to make the moves that can help boost the Rangers back into playoff contender status.
"You look at every opportunity," Daniels said. "I would say there are ways to improve."
The Rangers will take their shots in what many have termed a thin free agent market. They'll stand in line with many other clubs to talk money with free agent right-hander A.J. Burnett when it becomes permissible to do so beginning on Friday. Besides Burnett, the names of starting pitchers such as Kevin Millwood and Jarrod Washburn have come up in Rangers circles and there's another pool of starting pitching if Texas wants to consider Matt Morris, Paul Byrd, Esteban Loaiza, Shawn Estes, Brett Tomko, Jason Johnson, Scott Elarton, Tony Armas Jr., Joe Mays, Al Leiter or even Jamie Moyer.
If the Rangers can't get the pitching they want from the free agent market, they can look more at the trade options. While Texas isn't looking to move an established position player, it realizes that one or more trades may be necessary to improve the pitching.
Daniels said the Rangers received a gauge last July around the trade deadline of how much market value there is with the Texas inventory of talent.
"Industry-wise, at the deadline, you get a pretty good idea of who is highly coveted," Daniels said. "We've started to develop a group of players who have value."
Kevin Mench, Adrian Gonzalez, Alfonso Soriano and Hank Blalock are among the players who might bring significant pitching upgrades. Mench is arbitration eligible this winter and several teams have expressed interest. Gonzalez has been stuck behind All-Star first baseman Mark Teixeira and is now in the experimental process of determining whether he could move to a corner outfield spot. Soriano is entering the last year of his contract and could walk as a free agent after the 2006 season, although the Rangers would receive a high draft pick as compensation in that scenario. Blalock, a two-time All-Star, could probably bring the most value in a deal. He struggled against left-handed pitching with a .196 average in '05, but trading a young player with his hitting potential would represent a bold gamble.
If the Rangers can get consistent innings from their starting rotation and find a bargain or two in the bullpen market, they'll take their chances. While the offense could benefit from a speed merchant with a keen eye at the top of the lineup, the general sentiment is that the offense is good enough, provided that the pitching is decent. Adding another left-hander in the bullpen along the lines of a B.J. Ryan, Scott Eyre or Terry Mulholland could help give the Texas relief corps the type of pleasant lefty-righty blend that was evident in 2004.
"I don't think you could put the White Sox lineup against our lineup," Teixeira said, referring to the World Series champions. "I don't think it's even a comparison. But if you put a great pitching staff with a team that scores enough runs to win, you have the combination of a great team. We just want to bring the players in who can help us get to the playoffs. And then, who knows what could happen? We just want to get there. If we bring in a few more players who can make us better, we have a chance to do that."

Source: http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/

Guillen, Cox named managers of the year

November 10, 2005
Ozzie Guillen of the World Series champion Chicago White Sox was voted American League Manager of the Year, and Atlanta's Bobby Cox became the first back-to-back winner in either league, taking National League honors Wednesday after leading the rookie-laden Braves to yet another division title.
BASEBALL: Urbina charged
Free agent relief pitcher Ugueth Urbina was formally charged with attempted murder and will remain in prison near Caracas, Venezuela, while he is tried, his lawyer said.Urbina, who most recently pitched for the Philadelphia Phillies before becoming a free agent, is accused of joining a group of men in attacking and injuring five workers with machetes and pouring gasoline on them last month.
• Baseball commissioner Bud Selig, speaking at a meeting of baseball general managers, said he supports revised congressional legislation that would suspend players for a half-season following a first failed steroid test. Selig said negotiators for owners and players have made progress in talks but still haven't reached an agreement on a new drug deal. The length of the initial penalty appears to be the biggest obstacle.
Selig also maintained his opposition to using instant replay to review umpires' calls, and said there will not be a vote on the sale of the Washington Nationals at next week's owners' meetings.
• Rafael Palmeiro took responsibility for his failed steroid test but offered a possible excuse hinging on a tainted vitamin shot, giving his first public explanation on the eve of a congressional report into whether he lied under oath when he denied using steroids.
• As the Red Sox interviewed the first three candidates to replace departed general manager Theo Epstein, Boston acknowledged that it will explore trading All-Star outfielder Manny Ramirez. Washington general manager Jim Bowden, Minnesota assistant GM Wayne Krivsky and Atlanta assistant GM Dayton Moore interviewed with Red Sox officials.

Source: http://www.indystar.com/

Congress won't get tough on steroids yet

November 11, 2005
Though he tested positive for steroids just weeks after telling Congress he never used them, baseball star Rafael Palmeiro will not be prosecuted on perjury charges. Lawmakers said there isn't enough evidence to prove he lied when he said under oath he had ''never used steroids'' six weeks before failing a steroid test.
The investigation did not conclude whether the former Cubs, Rangers and Orioles slugger had actually ever used performance-enhancing substances prior to his testimony. ''We couldn't find any evidence of steroid use prior to his testimony,'' Chairman Tom Davis, R-Va., said. ''That's not a finding of innocence.''
Davis said the steroid for which Palmeiro tested positive is detectable for three to four weeks, shorter than the gap between his failed test and Capitol Hill appearance.

Source: http://www.chicagoredstreak.com/

Padres looking to transform Petco outfield

November 11, 2005
INDIAN WELLS – In the next few months, the Padres probably will make some far-reaching moves where their outfield is concerned.
Expect the team to shrink the acreage in Petco Park's vast right-center field known as "Death Valley" so that home runs will be easier to hit while the venue remains pitcher-friendly.
And running across that outfield the Padres envision a speedy center fielder, one likely to be acquired before baseball's meetings in early December.
General Manager Kevin Towers shed light on the Petco plan last night, saying chances are better than 50-50 the club will shorten right-center from 411 feet to as close as 395 feet this offseason. He cautioned that many details on financing and seating aesthetics need to be worked out.
"It'll still be a pitcher's park," Towers said. "It'll be more fair."
The move, part of a long-term strategy, isn't directed at wooing left-handed slugger Brian Giles, the team MVP who today can begin receiving bids from other clubs. But it can only appeal to Giles, whose home run totals plummeted after he was traded to the Padres.
"What it will do is give some of your left-handed power hitters a chance to hit more home runs," Towers said. "Four-eleven, that's big. Maybe you'll see fewer triples. We always said, when (catcher) Ramon Hernandez starts hitting triples, something's wrong."
Meanwhile, Towers said he's moving closer to acquiring a fleet outfielder or two as part of creating a defense more adept at running down fly balls and throwing out runners than was last season's crew. If Giles re-signs, he could move from right field to left, where he is better suited, and Ryan Klesko, a subpar left fielder, could move to first base.
"There's a good chance we'll get something done before the winter meetings in the way of a trade," Towers said from the GM meetings, which end today. "In the outfield especially, we need to get much more athletic."
Getting a catcher to assist holdover Miguel Olivo remains a priority. When the Texas Rangers recently pursued starting pitcher Adam Eaton in trade talks – which will be revisited – the Padres listened, in part because a package of young positional talent in return could bring them catcher Gerald Laird, who comes recommended by Grady Fuson, a former Rangers exec who is one of Towers' top aides.
Towers said San Diego's top catching prospect, George Kottaras, probably won't be ready for major league duty before late 2007. The Padres also continue to gather information on Japanese catcher Kenji Jojima. They like his right-handed bat but have concerns about his defensive skills and a potential bidding war.
The Padres' search for outfielders focused on the New York Mets' Mike Cameron, a superb center fielder, and includes the Rangers' Laynce Nix and Tampa Devil Rays ultrafast reserve center fielder Joey Gathright, whose availability increased yesterday when the club signed regular center fielder Rocco Baldelli to a long-term deal.
The Padres weren't dazzled by the Rangers' offers for Eaton, who can become a free agent next November, but will explore combinations that could include Kevin Mench, a 27-year-old left fielder who hit 25 home runs last year.
The Mets are seeking setup reliever Akinori Otsuka as part of the Cameron talks. The Padres would seek an eye exam for Cameron, who had surgery Aug. 13 to repair a shattered cheekbone suffered when he collided with Carlos Beltran while pursuing a ball at Petco Park. Cameron, 32, is expected to be cleared for the 2006 season.
Although Towers said center fielder Dave Roberts did a "nice job" in 2005, the GM is determined to upgrade the outfield defense, starting in center. "You really have to have somebody get the ball," he said.

Source: http://www.signonsandiego.com/