Uehara Now Off Market

With any story regarding the Texas Rangers and the free-agent/trade market, there should automatically be a disclaimer: Don't take to heart anything you hear because Jon Daniels and the Rangers' front office holds everything close to their vest.

Here's another shining example.

Just a week ago, it seemed to be a certainty that Koji Uehara would be pitching elsewhere come Opening Day. He was a huge disappointment in 2011 after being acquired from the Baltimore Orioles at the trade deadline. He was no better than average in his regular-season apperances with Texas and downright awful in the postseason, compiling a postseason ERA of 33.75 before being left off the World Series roster.

Now, it seems, Daniels is content with the group he has reporting to Surprise, Ariz., for spring training.

"There are always some deals in the spring, moves here or there," Daniels told MLB.com. "But we're ready to go with this group of guys. I have no moves planned or anything like that."

Uehara will make $4 million this season and become a free agent at the end of the year. Don't be shocked if he's dealt at some point during the season, but don't be too upset the Rangers are holding on to him.

It could be a great move. Keep in mind, Uehara, who will turn 37 just before Opening Day, had a 1.72 ERA last season in Baltimore before being shipped to Texas, where he put up a 4.00. He also has an insane strikeout to walk ratio, totaling 85 Ks and nine walks last season.

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So why not give him one more chance instead of giving up on him? The Rangers could be glad they decided to do that.

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