Clubbed by Cubs

The Great Hambino

I realize that pre-season are meaningless, but watching the Texas Rangers struggle is frustrating. I don't know why. Not like they're going to win the AL pennant or anything. But I guess I'm hoping for some sort of focus even if the games don't count. 

Particularly, I hope for inspired play from guys vying for a spot (not really happening) and from the pitchers (not really happening). 

Alas, the Rangers lost 10-4 to the Chicago Cubs yesterday. 

Good Stuff

1. Jarrod Saltalamacchia hit two doubles. He's hitting .400 in pre-season play so far. 

2. If only he played pre-season games: Josh Hamilton had an RBI single. Crushing pitching at a .500 clip. 

3. Luis Mendoza -- probably on the outside looking, rotationwise -- pitched 2.1 innings with only two baserunners. 

4. Elizardo Ramirez and Frank Francisco had scoreless frames.

Not Bad, But Not Good

1. Elvis Andrus had a throwing error. 

2. Warner Madrigal allowed a solo homer in his one inning. 

Bad Stuff 

1. Andruw Jones seems pumped about playing baseball: three more strikeouts in a 1-4 day. 

2. Justin Smoak, Greg Golson and Travis Metcalf each had two strikeouts. 

3. Scooter Feldman allowed nine hits -- two of which were homers -- and four earned runs.