Nick Tepesch had a great first couple of months to start the 2013 season before running into a wall and falling off the ledge while also battling injuries.
Now, he's ready to compete for a spot in the starting rotation once again, even moreso now that No. 2 starter Derek Holland will be out for at least half of the season after knee surgery.
"It's definitely unfortunate what happened to Derek," Tepesch told MLB.com. "I hope he gets better as soon as possible. From my standpoint, I'm not changing anything. My goal coming into Spring Training is to win a job."
To help his chances, Tepesch is working on a fourth pitch to add to his arsenal — a changeup.
"The changeup is big for everybody, especially Nick," pitching coach Mike Maddux said. "If you have four pitches ... it's a very good tool to put in his box."
Last season, Tepesch went 4-6 with a 4.84 ERA in 17 starts while making two appearances out of the bullpen later in the season. He finished second AL Rookie of the Month honors for May behind then-teammate Justin Grimm.
