Surprise Day 3

The Rangers have been very impressed by new reliever Akinori Otsuka. The native of Japan is due to pitch in the World Baseball Classic, and was fully expected to be absent from camp until the tournament was over. However, the team got a surprise when Otsuka showed up, even though it will be for just a few days. He has given the impression of a hard worker and a team player in his first few days with the team, a very good sign.

Otsuka was acquired in the trade that netted the Rangers Adam Eaton from San Diego. He has been an effective setup reliever for the Padres the last few seasons, though one worrisome statistic is his drastically better performance at home compared to the road. Still, I believe Otsuka will be a valuable member of the bullpen this season and is already gaining the respect of his teammates.

There have been conflicting reports on when Vicente Padilla arrived at camp, but in any case he is there now and working out. Padilla discussed how he was happy to be pitching in a warmer climate than his former home, Philadelphia. We'll see how he feels about it when he gets to Arlington and the ball is flying.

Francisco Cordero threw a bullpen session, as did Nick Regilio. Cordero is still withholding a decision on the World Baseball Classic, and Regilio is recovering from flexor tendon surgery. The Rangers will gave Regilio a chance to win a role on the team but are being cautious with him just the same. Catcher Nick Trzesniak was limited due to back spasms.

Very bad news concerning hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo, who has been diagnosed with prostate cancer. He will be leaving camp at some point for surgery, and may not be back with the team by opening day. In the event that he is unable to hold his post for any length of time, his likely replacement would be minor league batting instructor Brook Jacoby. I sincerely hope that Jaramillo, arguably the best hitting coach in the game, is able to make a full recovery.