ARLINGTON, Texas -- Ron Washington is managing with one goal in mind: To get the Texas Rangers ready for the stretch drive and postseason.

Yes, even in the middle of May, Washington is thinking about the big picture. That's not to say he doesn't keep his players focused on the present and attempt to win every series they play. But when it comes to having his team fully prepared for the heat of a pennant race in September, Washington sees value in putting together a plan now.

That includes rest. Right now. He watches his players every day and seems to understand when they need a mental break, and he doesn't hesitate to give it to them. If that means sitting two regulars in the same game, so be it.

Monday it was Ian Kinsler and Mike Napoli. Tuesday it was Nelson Cruz and Elvis Andrus. And Wednesday was Michael Young's turn to get a night off, even after Ian Kinsler was a late scratch because of a stomach virus.

Even Josh Hamilton must sit too. That could happen as early as Thursday.

Haven't two World Series appearances built enough trust in Washington's methods for Rangers fans?

Perhaps no manager in the majors has a better sense of the pulse of his team than Washington.

When the Rangers need a swift kick in the rear, he's more than willing to do the kicking. If he feels they need a boost, he'll shower them with compliments even when it seems like it's the last thing they deserve. In the end, no one gets more from his team than Washington.

So if the manager thinks his starters need a break, trust him.

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