The three injured right-handers on the disabled list -- Tommy Hunter, Brandon Webb and Scott Feldman -- all threw bullpen sessions today. Most of the attention was on Webb, who will make a rehab start Monday at Double A Frisco. He said his velocity is about 4 mph off where he was throwing before shoulder surgery, but hopes that pitching in a meaningful game with actual fans watching him will account for a little extra juice. He said his off-speed stuff and his sinker are good enough for him to compete.
Michael Kirkman has joined the roster, and Brett Tomko has accepted an outright assignment to Triple A after clearing waivers. Part of the design behind this move is to help take some of the load off lefties Arthur Rhodes and Darren Oliver. Kirkman, a lefty, can provide multiple innings. Four of his past five appearances at Round Rock were as a reliever, and he didn't allow a run over 7 2/3 innings.
Julio Borbon (hamstring) just got done running the bases, one of the final tests before he can head out on a rehab assignment. Manager Ron Washington has said that he wants Borbon to get at least 20 at-bats during his rehab stint, and Borbon isn't expected until after the Rangers' next road trip.
-- Jeff Wilson
Need that extra 4 mph in the big leagues.
Posted by: wayne | May 28, 2011 at 03:36 PM