Almost an Ian Kinsler 3-run homer to give the Rangers the lead…

Almost a winning record for April (10-11)…

It seems like the start of this season should be a disappointment to Ranger fans. The April schedule was supposed to be easier than it had been the last two years. The Rangers were facing teams with losing 2008 campaigns.

However, things aren’t always what they seem. Teams like Seattle, Toronto, Kansas City, and Detroit are showing that they are better than the experts predicted.

Here are my thoughts on the Rangers’ first month:

• Ian Kinsler is an animal!
• Kevin Millwood has been an absolute workhorse! Nolan Ryan’s conditioning program seems to be paying off on the starters.
• Nelson Cruz is the real deal!
• Michael Young is clutch!
• 41 Home Runs!
• Elvis Andrus has great range and can swing the bat a little.
• I’m glad we didn’t give up Brandon McCarthy!
• Ditto for Hank Blalock!
• Marlon Byrd is no 4th outfielder.
• Andruw Jones can still play a little bit.
• Jarrod Saltalamacchia has greatly improved his defense.
• Chris Davis needs a strong May. Otherwise, he may end up with Smoak in his eyes.
• C.J. “Cardiac” Wilson certainly makes things interesting.
• Frank Francisco has been lights out!
• Ron Washington’s decision making baffles me from time to time, but I still like the guy.
• Josh Hamilton needs to be a little more patient at the plate.
• The bullpen needs help.
• Derek Holland may be that help. I can’t wait to see how long it takes Wash to put him in the rotation.
• I hate Detroit!
• No one is happier than David Murphy that April is over!

What are your thoughts on the first month of the Rangers’ season?