Texas Rangers work on bunting, Michael Kirkman joins bullpen
Before heading into the game against the Los Angeles Angels on April 19, 2011, Julio Borbon, had not been under the eyes of the management. The reason was obvious. The outfielder had yet to hit his first successful bunt of the season. Much to his misery,
his attempts have gone unrewarding.
However, the player was working on getting into shape.
Michael Kirkman, on the other hand, has joined the bullpen as a third left-hander.
The hurler joins the other two pitchers, who are coincidently above 40-years of age. Darren Oliver and Arthur Rhodes were the first two stars on the front. Kirkman joins their pack in an effort to ease their pressure.
Going back to Borbon, the centre fielder nicked 17 bunts last year. That figure was tied for the most in the American League. That situation looks different now as the player has been popping most of them.
Manager Ron Washington put the workout session for the player to improve his focus. Diversity is what the Texans are aiming for and that is exactly what Borbon offers.
"He hasn't lost his drag bunt touch, he's just trying to bunt the wrong pitches", manager Ron Washington said. "When you see him go after the right pitch, it will come out. He's just getting a little anxious. It's not an easy thing to do. Your mindset has
to be 'It's all got to be right.' When it's not, leave it alone. It will start working".
On the other hand, Kirkman’s role with the club could allow the manager to split the partnership of both, Oliver and Rhodes. The two oldest members of the squad need some time off and looking at how difficult their task is, a short rest is what could lead
the two to optimal performance.
"If I use them both in the same game, I might not have either one of them available the next day", Washington said. "I would like at least one of them available".
Though the game on Tuesday did not go well, Washington will tinker with his plan to bring more stability in his squad soon.
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