Texas Rangers vs. RHP Nick Blackburn
- Ian Kinsler, 2B
- Elvis Andrus, SS
- Josh Hamilton, CF
- Adrian Beltre, DH
- Michael Young, 3B
- Nelson Cruz, RF
- David Murphy, LF
- Mike Napoli, C
- Brandon Snyder, 1B
The Brandon Snyder era is officially underway, as he gets his first start, coming at first. It is somewhat interesting that the Rangers would rather start Snyder and keep Napoli -- once mocked by his own manager regarding his defense -- behind the plate, rather than moving Napoli to first and starting Yorvit Torrealba. It's also a little questionable that the Rangers are going with a platoon disadvantage with Snyder vs. Blackburn, instead of the lefty Mitch Moreland.
The Rangers' use of DH as a place to rotate players to keep them healthy was a smart move last season, and it looks as though they are keeping it up this year, giving Beltre a day of rest without ditching his bat. Unfortunately that means Young in the field, but it's probably a worthy trade off to keep players fresh.
Minnesota not yet posted.