No, I am not referring to Roy Hobbs’ mythical bat…

Derek Holland, the Rangers’ prized lefty, has been called up from AAA Oklahoma City.

Josh Rupe, whose ERA has climbed above 15 this season, has been designated for assignment. The Rangers have 10 days to trade him, release him, or get him through waivers and send him back to the minors.

Holland (whose OKC teammates affectionately called Wonderboy) will work out of the bullpen for now. This is a move that was expected to happen at some point this season, but certainly not this soon. Nolan Ryan has expressed his opinion that he would like to see  Holland and Neftali Feliz start their big league careers in the bullpen to gain some experience and help the club. The way the bullpen has pitched so far, Holland should be a welcome relief (pun intended).

Friday Night’s Game: Rangers Lose 12-3

I do not understand why Ron Washington replaced Michael Young with Omar Vizquel with bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the seventh. I realize the Rangers were losing 9-0 at the time, but what kind of message does that send to the team? Wash explained that he had already told Omar he was going into the game, and he didn’t want to take an at bat away from him. I’m sorry, but Omar was brought here to play defense and mentor Elvis Andrus at short. He was not brought here to replace the Rangers’ best clutch hitter in a clutch situation. In my opinion, that was a bad move on the manager’s part. You never concede a game. Especially when a powerhouse offense like the Rangers is threatening with the bases loaded. Who knows? Mike very well may have popped out just like Omar did, but it doesn’t matter. You never give up. Never.

Thoughts on Saturday Night’s Game: Rangers Lose 2-0

• Kevin Millwood went the distance tonight allowing only two runs. You would think a Rangers team that scored 19 runs the other night could at least scrape together 3 runs to help give their ace his second win of the season, especially since the bullpen blew his last great outing.
• Zack Greinke is very good. Complete game shutout. He has not given up a run in his first three outings (20 innings, 3-0 record).
• Josh Hamilton needs to spend a little time with Rudy. He looks a little lost at the plate.
• Salty has certainly stepped up his game behind the plate. Runners now have to think twice before trying to run on the Rangers.
• I think Michael Young needs to play a step closer to the line at third. Too many balls have turned into doubles this season. Mike has great reflexes and is a terrific fielder.  I just think he is a bit out of position.
• Ian Kinsler has been on base evey game this year. That’s exactly what you need from your leadoff man.