It was a classic battle. The Texas Rangers had Alexi Ogando on the mound facing the Giants’ Madison Bumgarner. For Texas fans it was a rematch and time to get revenge for the 2010 World Series. Texas won the game 4-1 and fans in Texas rejoiced.

But it was just a spring training game. However, unlike other games, it featured both teams utilizing their offensive starters for the majority of the game. So what did I see that I liked?

It started with Alexi Ogando who showed that, while he is an invaluable piece of the bullpen, he continued to prove his worth as a pitcher who could come in and contribute in a spot start when needed.

I was also impressed with Mitch Moreland who continues to show the patience at the plate that any little leaguer should study. His at-bats are a thing of beauty to me.

The game wasn’t without its faults though as Josh Hamilton had two chances at big plays. He had a chance to score the first run of the game early on but instead of running home on an infield hit he was caught at third base and later in the game he allowed a double a double on a hit that he would’ve normally dove for during the regular season. Once again, though, this is still spring training and there’s no reason to be overly aggressive unless you’re trying to make the team.

In relief Mike Adams seemed to find his groove again. Robbie Ross continued to impress me. I’m still not sold on Neal Cotts as a lefty in the bullpen. And I don’t see Mark Hamburger making the roster.

Last season I turned to Twitter and featured the opinions of fellow Rangers’ fan Mike McGehee (@SDIMikeMcgehee) and I thought I’d bring his “two cents” back again this year. When I asked Mike his thoughts on tonight’s game he responded by saying “In a game under the lights the standout for me was Robbie Ross. The electrifying lefty continues to make his case for the big leagues. While the club would like to develop him as a starter it would be hard to keep the youngster off the roster if he continues to light up big league hitters.”

And I agree. The Rangers lost Darren Oliver in the offseason to free agency and never re-signed Michael Gonzalez. If there are two guys on the staff who could replace them, in my mind, it would be Ross and Mitch Stetter.

Opening day is less than two weeks away and I cannot wait. And I’m confident that positions will be filled as needed and everything will work out just fine.

Until next time, I’ll see you in the cheap seats!

James Holland is a lifelong fan of baseball and his hometown Texas Rangers. You can follow him on Twitter @MLBJamesHolland.

Sources:

http://texasrangers.com

http://twitter.com