Rocker Secures 5th Starter Spot; McCutchen Joins the Team
Kumar Rocker will open the season as the Rangers’ fifth starting pitcher. Jacob Latz, who competed for the role, will begin the year in the bullpen.
The club confirmed that Rocker secures the fifth rotation spot. Andrew McCutchen has joined the major-league roster after spring play.
Also making the Opening Day roster are Sam Haggerty and Ezequiel Duran. Mark Canha will not make the team unless an injury occurs.
Outfield alignment
Evan Carter will serve as the primary center fielder. Wyatt Langford will shift to center on Carter’s scheduled off days.
Club president Chris Young said Carter will sit against some left-handed pitchers. Young added Carter will not be part of a platoon to start the year.
Bullpen and final roster spot
With these moves, 25 of 26 roster spots appear set. The final spot remains a bullpen decision.
- Carter Baumler
- Josh Sborz
- Luis Curvelo
Baumler was acquired via Rule 5. If he does not stick on the major-league roster, he must be offered back to the Baltimore Orioles.
Rationale behind the choices
McCutchen had been viewed as a likely roster addition since signing. He also produced strong numbers in exhibition games.
Rocker’s late spring surge gave him the edge for the rotation spot. Latz showed a velocity dip in his final spring start and holds added value as a reliever.
Filmogaz.com will continue to update this roster story as the season approaches. The club could still adjust the bullpen before Opening Day.
