It was probably never a serious consideration for the Texas Rangers to give Phil Klein a long-term role in the team's starting rotation after he took the place of an injured Ross Detwiler after just two minor-league starts that followed a long line of relief appearances, both in the minors and with the Rangers.
His MLB starting debut came against Boston at Fenway Park last week, and the results were generally good as he lasted into the sixth inning and allowed just one run — more than the Rangers could have ever expected out of him. It definitely was enough to earn him another start, but that one didn't go so well.
On Tuesday in Cleveland, Klein failed to get an out in the third inning and taxed the Rangers' bullpen in a game the team eventually won 10-8 despite the fact he gave up seven runs and five extra-base hits. Now, Detwiler is set to come off the disabled list on Saturday — the same day Klein's spot in the rotation comes up against that same Red Sox lineup he succeeded against just a week ago.
Detwiler would almost certainly need at least one rehab start in the minors before returning to the bigs, whether it be in the rotation or in the bullpen, so the Rangers have left Saturday's starter as the good ol' "TBA" with several choices available, including Klein or long-relief man Anthony Bass.
Klein might have a future as a starter, but he without question needs more starts logged in the minors before he's a serious rotation contender, so don't be shocked if you see Klein back in Triple-A by Saturday.
