Only a week into the season, the Texas Rangers are tinkering.
Willie Eyre was activated from the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday, meaning that he will replace Warner Madrigal in the Rangers bullpen.
Eyre had a strong spring training, with six appearances and a 1.50 ERA before being shelved with a right groin strain.
Wednesday will mark Eyre’s first game in the majors since 2007. He was sidelined for most of 2008 after undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Warner Madrigal was optioned to triple-A Oklahoma City after an ugly start to 2009.
Madrigal struggled with control issues in three relief appearances for the team, posting a 13.50 ERA, with five walks, a hit batsman and only one strikeout.
Eyre will join a bullpen that has become a palpable cause for concern in the past week.
Sports Connection
Connecting you to your favorite North Texas sports teams as well as sports news around the globe.
Madrigal, Scott Feldman, Eddie Guardado, Josh Rupe and C.J. Wilson have all seen their share of struggles in the early season.
Texas’ relievers have combined for an 8.17 ERA, and an 0-2 record going into Wednesday night.
Eyre (presumably) will primarily be used in middle inning, long relief situations.
