Dave Bush and Michael Kirkman were the first names mentioned as possible replacements for Tommy Hunter, who is going to miss about six weeks with a strained right groin. Neftali Feliz is going to stay as the closer, which some in Rangers fandom don't seem to like.
Add Alexi Ogando to the list of possible replacements. He was very effective this spring as a starter in Cactus League games and in an appearance in a Double A game. He's still stretched out, and it wouldn't take too much to get him back in a starter's routine.
The Rangers could replace Ogando's power arm in the bullpen with Pedro Strop, though Strop likely wouldn't pitch in the late innings. He, too, has been impressive this spring, but there are concerns about him based on his ugly big-league stints last year.
Brett Tomko is another name to consider. He will pitch five innings in a minor-league game Saturday and has plenty of experience as a big-league starting pitcher.
-- Jeff Wilson


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