Rangers infielder Russell Wilson shown holding Lombardi Trophy

Yesterday was the last day of just strictly workouts. Today marks the beginning of the Cactus league season for the Rangers as they take on the Kansas City Royals. There were a couple of notable things that happened yesterday. First, Russell Wilson will be visiting Rangers camp next Monday and be in uniform for the game against the Indians. Second, the Rangers worked out free agent lefty Joe Saunders as they continue to look to add to their depth this Spring Training.

Lets start by talking about the Russell Wilson situation. Wilson was drafted by the Rangers in the Rule V draft back in December, but it wasn’t sure at the time if he would do anything with the team. Yesterday he confirmed that he would be in camp on Monday. He most likely will be there to talk to the young players about what it takes to win and the work you have to put in. Wilson knows something about that having just led the Seattle Seahawks to the Super Bowl. He also will take part in workouts that day. Wilson will take some grounders at his natural position of second base. I am sure he will also take some hacks in the cage. It should be a fun day for him and the organization, but I don’t see him doing much more than that.

In other news Joe Saunders worked out for the team yesterday. Saunders spent last season pitching for the Seattle Mariners where went 11-16 with a 5.26 ERA. He doesn’t seem like a good fit for the Rangers, but they are just trying to see what he has and if he could contribute early on in the season when they will be missing both Matt Harrison and Derek Holland. If the Rangers do sign him I think he will be hard pressed to win a job over the candidates they already have in camp. I am not too worried about Joe Saunders being on the opening day roster.

Finally, the Cactus League kicks off today at 2:05 ct against the Royals. Yu Darvish gets the start and is expected to throw 2 innings. Prince Fielder and Adrian Beltre will also be in the lineup. This will be their first action of spring as they were kept out of the intrasquad scrimmages earlier this week. The Rangers will be missing a few players though. Jurickson Profar has just begun his throwing program, so Adam Rosales will get the start at second base. Alex Rios is dealing with a sore toe, so Michael Choice will get the start in right field. Geovanny Soto is still recovering from his left ankle surgery, so J.P. Arencibia will get the start at catcher. Among these reserves Choice is the one with the most to prove. He was brought over in the Craig Gentry trade and now is in competition with Engel Beltre for the fourth outfielder spot. Tommy Hanson will also be pitching today as he will follow up Yu Darvish. He is expected to go 2 innings as well. The competition for the 5th starter spot really gets started today and continues for the next four weeks. We will keep an eye on that everyday through the end of spring. That is all I have for today. I will try to have a game summary available tonight.

Daily Countdown:32 Days till Opening Day