Texas Rangers’ Adrian Beltre takes at-bats in simulated game
By Drake Diacon
Texas Rangers’ third baseman Adrian Beltre takes strides towards return to lineup on Wednesday.
Adrian Beltre made steps towards his return from the disabled list on Wednesday when he took at-bats from teammate Andrew Cashner, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News.
The Texas Rangers placed the All-Star third baseman on the 10-day disabled list Saturday with a strained right calf. In his place, former top prospect Joey Gallo has started all three games to start the season. In that time, Gallo has batted .200 with 1 HR, 2 RBI, and leads the league in strikeouts with seven.
Although there is no exact timetable for Beltre’s return, many speculated the move was precautionary for the 38-year-old third baseman. Beltre had a busy spring between Spring Training with the Rangers and competing in the World Baseball Classic for Dominican Republic.
Manager Jeff Bannister alluded to the decision being precautionary Saturday when the move was made.
"“There is still some buildup for Adrian, but I think as long as he can do the work, I don’t think it will take him that long to get up to speed,” Banister said. “We want him on the field all the time. But all of us, putting our minds together, we tried to take all factors into account and make a smart decision for the long-term.”"
The return of Beltre will be welcomed by the Rangers, who had a 0-3 start to their season. The first series ended in a sweep by the Indians and the bullpen was once again the main issue.
On Monday night, the Rangers lost 8-5 after Yu Darvish handed the game over to the bullpen with a 5-4 lead. The Rangers’ bullpen blew another lead Wednesday night, when closer Sam Dyson had a disastrous 5-run 9th inning capped off by a Francisco Lindor grand slam.