It's official: Neftali Feliz will remain in the bullpen for the Texas Rangers in 2011. Per Anthony Andro, the reigning American League Rookie of the Year award winner will not be in the starting rotation for the Rangers this year, something that Texas manager Ron Washington confirmed on Thursday.
Feliz was scheduled to start tonight for the Rangers, but with Washington's recent decision, Feliz will not start. Tonight's starter for Texas is TBD.
With Feliz headed to the bullpen, Tommy Hunter, Derek Holland and Matt Harrison will round out Texas' rotation to open the 2011 season. Brandon Webb, who was signed over the winter, is still recovering from his shoulder injuries.
Feliz' role as closer also defines roles for other members of the Rangers' pitching staff. Alexi Ogando, who was a candidate both for Texas' rotation and closer should Feliz have earned a starting spot, will remain a setup man for the Rangers.