Richard Durrett

  (3:28 PM)

Good afternoon, everyone. It's a sunny day and the players are finished with their outdoor work. Many are still working out before their days are done. Let's get to some questions.

Chase (Dallas)

I guess other writers aren't familiar with the Cuban defector 1b that I have been sending in questions about the past week or so. anyhoo, Richard, have you heard any news on Jose Julio Ruiz? He's 25, 6'3" with power and speed. He has the potential to finally give the Rangers another TRUE corner outfielder, and his potential is intriguing especially considering the numbers another Cuban defector 1b (Kendry Morales) put up not only last season, but when he first came up for the Angels a couple seasons ago and mashed the ball around the ballpark. The Rangers have been linked to being one of his strongest suitors especially considering the fact that they held a private workout with him. Your thoughts?

Richard Durrett

  (3:29 PM)

I'll be honest: I'm not very familiar with him. I do know the Rangers are aggressive in the Latin American market and they hold workouts for a bunch of guys. I'll have to ask Jon Daniels about him.

Brandon (Keller, Tx)

The loss of Greene is a significant one due to the number of positions that he could play. The Rangers have no real backup first base option. (although Murphy may see some time) Could we see the Rangers engage in talks with Dye about being a backup first baseman/4th outfielder? One has to think that his price has dropped.

Richard Durrett

  (3:31 PM)

I don't think Jermaine Dye is a possibility. But I do think that you could see them try to find a right-handed hitting first baseman instead of one guy to handle all four infield spots. They are expected to look internally for Greene's replacement. If that's Joaquin Arias, he can play shortstop primary. But he's not a first baseman. Murphy could see some time there. Or they could go out and get someone. I wouldn't be shocked if they keep an eye on Mike Lowell this spring.

DALLAS LUCAS (DALLAS,TEXAS)

How well do you think Neftali Feliz will work out in the rotation, if he was ever "in" the rotation??

Richard Durrett

  (3:32 PM)

He's not in the rotation yet. But I think he would pitch well. The guy has overpowering stuff. I still think he's likely to start the season in the bullpen, but could then shift to the rotation at some point. He'll be good whereever he ends up.

Derrik (Nacogdoches, Texas)

Are we still looking a signing Rocco Balldeli to fill that right-handed bat/first base role or are we going to go in a different direction?

Richard Durrett

  (3:33 PM)

I stil think he's a possibility. Seems to be a guy that could fit that role.

Garrett Smith (Chicago)

Who do you think poses the bigger threat for the Rangers in the AL West? The Mariners who have been praised by many as having the strongest offseason by acquiring Cliff Lee, Chone Figgins, Milton Bradley, and others. Or the Angels, who have lost John Lackey, Chone Figgins, and an aging Vlad while adding Hideki Matsui -- it seems that with Scioscia as manager, the Angels will forever be a threat.

Richard Durrett

  (3:34 PM)

I think both are legitimate threats, Garrett. Ron Washington will tell you that it's the Angels' division until someone knocks them off. But I think the Mariners pose the bigger threat. They really improved this offseason and sure do look good on paper. Of course, the Rangers improved too.

allan (wilmington, nc )

do you think the rangers will win the division this year and what chances do you think we would have in the playoffs?

Richard Durrett

  (3:35 PM)

It's a tough division, so if the Rangers get through it, it likely means the starting rotation was solid. If Rich Harden stays healthy, he's a legit No. 1. And there's enough depth behind him to make things interesting. They have to make the playoffs first, though.

Kimberly (Dallas)

If Justin Smoak and Chris Davis were to come into spring training as equals as far as experience in the majors goes, who do you think would be better fit to take on the first base position? I personally think So who would you pick?

Richard Durrett

  (3:36 PM)

That's tough to say. Smoak is a switch hitter, a real advantage. But Davis is very solid with the glove. I've said this offseason that I believe Davis is going to seize the first base job this spring and have a better year.

Richard Durrett

  (3:40 PM)

Sorry for my quick break. Had to shoot a video with Michael Young.

Jim B. (Plano, TX)

With everything going on with our Utility Infielder Khalil Greene, why hasn't Hank Blalock been brought up? Did he sign somewhere else? I just think that we may be running out of options. Arias didn't show much last season, but maybe German is an option? Thanks for your time!

Richard Durrett

  (3:41 PM)

He could be an option for this club, but I think it's best to be patient too. A lot of guys could end up on the waiver wire or could be available via trade later in the spring as teams set their rosters.

bryant (fort worth)

do you think the rangers would have a shot at josh beckett at the trade deadline if hes not resigned by the redsox by then?

Richard Durrett

  (3:42 PM)

With new ownership in place, I think the Rangers will have some money -- and they have depth in the organization in terms of minor leaguers -- to make a deal to help the club.

John (Gardere)

With so many players acquiring the rule 5 draftee status after this season, do you see the Rangers making a move for a Zach Greinke or Brandon Webb caliber pitcher at or near the trade deadline (Rangers will be in contention)? I know Kiker, Wilmer Font, Engel Beltre, and some others will be eligible for the Rule 5 draft after the season.

Richard Durrett

  (3:43 PM)

I think the club has numerous possibilities, something that hasn't been the case in the past. Greinke and Webb sure would be tempting. The Rangers would have to give up a lot to get one of those guys, but they also have a lot to give up. So we'll see.

john s. (tulsa)

Were do you Felix pitching this year; starter, relief, or closer?

Richard Durrett

  (3:44 PM)

I really want to see the guy start. But I don't think it hurts if he starts the season in the bullpen and then stretches out.

Mat Tonne (Dallas)

Richard, is now the time we finally get something out of Joaquin Arias?

Richard Durrett

  (3:46 PM)

It may be. In fact, it may have to be based on the Khalil Greene situation. Arias does seem focused and says he feels good. He has to show it this spring. That will be interesting to watch.

Dustin (Addison)

With Green apparently out as the utility infielder is there any chance the Rangers go after Felip Lopez? And if they do go after him is there a chance he would accept a utility role?

Richard Durrett

  (3:47 PM)

No. That doesn't seem likely at all. And I'm not sure he'd take a role as a backup like that here anyway.

Adam (Los Angeles)

Who do you see winning the 5th spot in the rotation?

Richard Durrett

  (3:47 PM)

I still say Derek Holland. The sprained knee shouldn't set him back for long and he's a lefty, something I know the team wants in the rotation. But that's just a guess. There are plenty of good, young candidates that will get a shot.

Gary (Bixby, OK)

Which Ian Kinsler are we going to see for the most part in 2010? The one who was in the early MVP talk in April, or the one who really struggled at the plate in the summer months?

Richard Durrett

  (3:49 PM)

How about one that's in between those extremes? I bet we see a more consistent Kinsler this season. But don't be surprised if he doesn't hit 30 homers again. I like his chances for a solid season. I don't think it will be MVP-like, but solid. And that would be great for this lineup. I like that he's batting fifth. I think that suits him better than leadoff.

Mat Tonne (Dallas)

Your guess on an ETA for Scheppers joining the Rangers' pen?

Richard Durrett

  (3:49 PM)

It wouldn't stun me to see him in September. But it's too early to tell. BTW, he shaved off all his hair this spring.

troy (arlington)

any word about the beer prices at the ballpark this season? this is a big issue for me personally

Richard Durrett

  (3:50 PM)

Isn't that a big issue for everyone? No, I haven't heard. I'll give you a full report when I do.

John Buchanan (Boston, MA)

Now that our pockets have become a bit deeper with the new ownership, would you say that the Rangers are more willing to be patient with the young arms in the minors, and those potential future starters in the bullpen? Knowing that they may have an opportunity to shop the trade market come the deadline for a starter with less financial contraints (assuming of course their in contention)?

Richard Durrett

  (3:51 PM)

I think they've been more patient the last few seasons because they've had more young arms. When you don't have any other options, it's easy to rush guys. They have other options, so don't rush them. That's what they're doing. New ownership doesn't really impact that, in my opinion.

James (Arlington)

Which rookie has the biggest impact Smoak, Bourbon, Feliz, Scheppers(who I think could be our Andrew Bailey) or someone else?.

Richard Durrett

  (3:52 PM)

Great question. I'm going to say Feliz. But look out for Borbon. I think he's got something.

Karsten Davis (Plano, TX)

How do you feel bout this bolstered Rangers pitching staff?

Richard Durrett

  (3:53 PM)

Much better than I have in a while. I've watched Rich Harden throw the last few days and he has a certain command about him that I like. You can see how good that stuff is already. Scott Feldman may not get 17 wins, but he can certainly keep improving and keep refining his game. It comes down to health.

Derrik (Dallas)

I would like to see Holland get the last rotation spot, but really you can't go wrong with any of these guys. Who do you expect to get the spot?

Richard Durrett

  (3:53 PM)

I'm with you.

Grant (Plano)

where do you think Ian Kinsler fits best in the batting order assuming that Julio Borbon settles into the leadoff spot? I think that his combination of speed and power makes him very versatile.

Richard Durrett

  (3:55 PM)

He is very versatile. I like him just fine in the fifth spot. But I'd also be OK if he hit sixth. It puts him in a spot where he can drive in more runs. His speed in the middle should help as well. i just think he's better off fifth or sixth than leadoff. But what's great about him is that he can hit leadoff if needed against lefties. He's the type of guy most teams would love to have at their disposal, that's for sure.

David (Dallas)

Do any of the Rangers this year have a chance to win AL MVP? Kinsler, Andrus maybe?

Richard Durrett

  (3:56 PM)

Honestly, this strikes me as more of a balanced team without one huge guy. And that's good for their playoff chances, if you ask me.

Matt (San Antonio)

What is the attitude in Surprise like right now? Is there any marked difference from other years?

Richard Durrett

  (3:56 PM)

It's difficult to tell that. But guys are optimistic, yet focused. Michael Young always has a good vibe on that and he senses a new attitude. That's a good sign.

Jeff (Paris TX)

So what's your projected opening day rotation look like?

Richard Durrett

  (3:57 PM)

Rich Harden, Scott Feldman, Colby Lewis, Tommy Hunter and Derek Holland.

?Curious (in Keller)

If the rangers win a playoff series this year will there be a parade in Arlington and will it be in the new owners honor or Tom Hicks?

Richard Durrett

  (3:58 PM)

It should be both. Say what you want about Hicks and I understand the fan frustation with him right now. It's tough to root for a team that can't spend any money. But he did hire Jon Daniels and Nolan Ryan. So if this club makes the playoffs, Hicks should get some of the credit.

Brandon (Allen)

How long do you think it will be until we see Martin Perez in the bigs?

Richard Durrett

  (3:58 PM)

Soon. Like maybe next year. But again, the club keeps cautioning me and others that they are not going to rush these guys.

Coleman (Amherst, MA)

Any updates on the ownership situation? When can we expect Greenberg to officially own the team?

Richard Durrett

  (3:59 PM)

Things are still proceeding at this point. I still think it's possible to get things done by opening day. But these are complicated deals and you've got 40 lenders that have to sign off. That takes time.

derrik (dallas,texas)

I know the last rotation spot is coming down to Holland, Harrison, and McCarthy (i'm assuming feliz and wilson will be in the pen). What will happen to the two guys that dont make the rotation? Will they be traded?

Richard Durrett

  (3:59 PM)

Not necessarily. You have to have depth. They'll go to OKC or could end up in the bullpen as long guys.

Blake (Abilene, TX)

Richard, with Borbon proving he can handle the leadoff role how dificult is this strech of power hitters for apposing pitchers Kinsler, Hamilton, Guerrero, Cruz batting 3,4,5,6?

Richard Durrett

  (4:00 PM)

I see your point on that. But I like having Guerrero in the cleanup spot, especially with Young in the 2-hole. But you could mix and match and probably be just fine. I know I don't want to face those guys.

Josh (Carrollton)

Call me crazy, but I really like Scheppers being with the big club when they break camp. It seems like he's getting lost in the shuffle from the excitement caused by Feliz, Holland, etc... but I feel he could contribute right away, so long as the arm holds up.

Richard Durrett

  (4:01 PM)

I disagree. Why rush him? Let him keep progressing and push his way in. The Rangers have enough bullpen arms right now. No reason to rush it.

Jason (Garland)

Richard, do you happen to know the projected line up to start the season?

Richard Durrett

  (4:01 PM)

My guess at this point: Borbon, Young, Hamilton, Guerrero, Kinsler, Davis, Cruz, Salty/Teagarden, Andrus.

Josh (Arlington)

How much do you see the Rangers attempting to steal bases this year with Bourbon, Andrus and even Kinsler do you think they can lead the league in S.B. which I would love to see! Especially leading into less Double Plays and hopefully more runs?

Richard Durrett

  (4:02 PM)

I think they'll get very aggressive on the bases. And I think they should. They've got the speed to do it and that's how you can manufacture some runs.

Chris (Dallas)

If the sale is complete will Greenberg throw out the first pitch on opening day?

Richard Durrett

  (4:02 PM)

I'd rather see Nolan throw out the first pitch. Could he hit 90?

?Curious (in Keller)

Any sit down blogs with fans watching the games this year?

Richard Durrett

  (4:03 PM)

Of course. In fact, we'll be chatting during games just like last year. So be sure and join me for that.

Mike walters (saint Jo , Texas)

After reading Mike Lowell's quotes today would I be wrong to assume that he would not be happy being a backup for the rangers either would he?

Richard Durrett

  (4:03 PM)

I agree. And I'll throw those comments on the Rangers' blog so that anyone that hasn't seen them, can. There's also a story on the ESPNDallas.com home page.

Mike (Garland, TX)

I'm concerned about Holland as a starter. He had flashes of brilliance in the middle of his starts last seasons, but I'm afraid he's too young or he got figured out towards the end. Should we be concerned at all if he does get that fifth spot or do you think he learned a lot and will apply it and be more lethal this season?

Richard Durrett

  (4:04 PM)

I think he learned a lot. You have to find out, don't you? The great thing about depth is that if he doesn't get it figured out, you can let him grow more in the minors and go with someone else.

Trey (Fort Worth)

What kind of year are the Rangers expecting out of Hamilton?

Richard Durrett

  (4:05 PM)

A good one. I think the 2008 year was a career year, but he's capable of much more than he showed in 2009. Again, the key is keeping him healthy.

Josh (Carrollton)

If Holland gets the 5th spot (which he should) what in the world do the Rangers do with B-Mac?

Richard Durrett

  (4:06 PM)

He could end up in long relief or as a depth starter. Or they could see if there's a market for him. It's too early to tell.

Chuck Greenberg (Everywhere)

Am I at training camp? Are we facebook friends, Richard?

Richard Durrett

  (4:06 PM)

You are not at camp. And of course we are facebook friends.

Josh (Thorp Springs, TX)

As you stressed earlier about the need for a Utility Player. If Arias can play SS, then he can obviously play 2B. Why would we look outside the organization when we have Smoak who could be here in a matter of hours to help out if 1B is a problem?

Richard Durrett

  (4:08 PM)

Because if Smoak is up here, he's not playing every day and not getting enough at-bats.

Nick (Irving)

Why does no one mention Dustin Nippert? I liked what I saw from him in the rotation and as a long reliever

Richard Durrett

  (4:08 PM)

Me too. I think he's penciled in to a long spot now.

Richard Durrett

  (4:08 PM)

Thanks, everyone. Let's do it again next week.