Texas Rangers’ Alexi Ogando ready to pitch as starter – MLB News
The Texas Rangers starting pitcher Alexi Ogando has stated that he is spending more time getting ready this year to be a starter. His statement came on Sunday, January 15 at Rangers’ Fanfest held at the Arlington Convention Centre.
Agile and strong, the Texas Rangers' starter drew enormous attention the past season for his amazing performance throughout the year, bringing breathtaking victories to the team. He had no less than 13 wins the past season, adding a refreshing supplement
to the Rangers’ ever strengthening defence.
Imbued with confidence, the pitcher has already started practicing for the coming season and as he put in the interview, he has adjusted himself for the position.
"I'm spending more time getting ready this year to be a starter," Ogando said. "It's an adjustment I have made. I have proven to myself that I can do it if I start earlier than I did last year."
Of the 31 games that he played last year, he made starts in 29 of them, pitching no less than 169 innings with one complete game. He had an ERA of 3.51 with 126 strike-outs to his credit. Ogando stood 10th in the American League with 1.14 WHIP,
proving his credentials right as a 28-year-old starter.
However, he will have a couple of challenges in the bullpen provided two possibilities materialise. The Rangers are making attempts to acquire Yu Darvish, the Japanese pitcher, sign for the club alone with Roy Oswalt.
In that case, his role might be of a reliever at the end. But nonetheless, for now his focus has been to go as a starter.
"It's something that is out of my control," Ogando said. "I don't think much about it. I'm going to prepare myself to be a starter. Either way I will be ready. Of course I want to be a starter, so I'm going to get ready for it."
It is only a matter of time before the fans look at Ogando on the mound. With his strong arms and quality pitches, he will surely be a treat to watch for many Rangers’ fans.
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