Darren Oliver prepared to hand back closer torch to Neftali Feliz
The Texas Rangers will be up against the New York Yankees at their home ground in Arlington. One of the positives to come out of the club’s camp happens to be the confirmation that Neftali Feliz will return to close for his team.
The young pitcher, who was put on the 15-day disabled list in late April, due to a right shoulder inflammation, will make his first appearance and he will take the reins from Darren Oliver.
Oliver, who is 40-years old, has held the fort strongly. Though he has not been as effective as Feliz, he has brought home two saves for the club. The veteran was able to talk about the situation before the game against the Seattle Mariners.
"Two saves ... geez", Oliver said. "I'm going to have to have a little chit-chat with Feliz about that. I told Feliz he owes me dinner for picking up the slack. Two-for-two in save opportunities, not bad for an old guy. I'm not talking about the losses ...
just the save situations".
Many teammates are overjoyed by the prospect of Feliz’s return and many fans will see a lot of pressure alleviated from the backs of the bullpen contingent. With struggling performances, the team needs a change in form.
"It's going to help a lot", catcher Yorvit Torrealba said. "Oliver and Arthur [Rhodes] have been doing their job in the late innings of a ballgame but obviously getting our real closer is going to help a lot".
The Rangers were 3-for-6 in save opportunities, with an earning runs average of 4.50. With poor relieving the club will be boosted by Feliz’s return. Unofficial captain, Michael Young believes the team has done well with the help it has had in the recent
days.
"We're all proud of the effort we've been getting while Neftali has been out", Young said.
However, the utility infielder claimed that it will surely be a boost to have the hurler back in the mix. He affirmed that the young closer is a major player in the team.
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