Neftali Feliz’s desire to start goes against Texas Rangers’ closing arrangement – MLB News
Neftali Feliz, a closer for the Texas Rangers wants to become a starter. However, it seems that the Rangers’ officials want him to continue as a closer, as manager Ron Washington wants a veteran pitcher for the position. They concluded a decision which is
better for the team.
Speaking to reporters, Feliz said, “My goal is to be a starter, but it's not my decision. In the end, the final decision rests with the team. I know they have plenty of guys who could be a starter. They could keep giving me a chance to start or keep me as
the closer.”
He played as a closer for the Rangers in 2010, when he saved 40 runs and was listed in the American League Draftee of the Year. Due to his exemplary performance, the Rangers attained the World Series title for the first time in their franchise history.
Feliz is looking for the opportunity to become a starter for the Rangers, as he has the skill and vast experience to handle the responsibility. However, the Rangers want him to maintain his position as a valuable closer for them.
The Rangers' regulation covers the contenders like C.J. Wilson and Colby Lewis. Players like Derek Holland, Tommy Hunter, Alexi Ogando, Matt Harrison and Michael Kirkman all threw sound to get one of the last three spots.
The Rangers also have Brandon Webb and if he maintains his fitness level could be ready for the regular season. David Bush is also a very experienced pitcher who gives a protection network for the team.
Team officials will have to give an opportunity to either Ogando, who has played 44 games in the Major League or Mark Lowe, who was left out of the past season due to a back injury.
Lowe has tremendous skill as he threw in 165 Major League games. He is a hard-pitching fastball thrower who had a striking 97 mph in his inning against the Colorado Rockies. He permitted four runs on five strikes and gets an ERA of 10.50 for the spring season.
Mark said, "I felt great. Physically, I felt amazing. I'm right where I want to be. Usually, it takes all spring to get my command. A lot of power pitchers are like that. You build up arm strength and then you've got to turn it around and get the arm strength
to work for you."
Lowe requires a hitless throw. His line-up has been excellent throughout the spring season, but he will be looking to improve his pitching. Nolan Ryan was the contender with the same pitches, as he also threw late in all the games of the spring season.
The Rangers are sure about Lowe as he will be ready to throw out in a bull-pen session. If it doesn’t happen, then he will be set as a relief pitcher. Now it will be a big challenge for him to prove his pitching role.
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