I haven't ordered Extra Innings yet (just moved to Boston) and weekend's series was the first time I've been able to watch the Rangers this season...

Just sad...and I'm going to hear about it on work tomorrow.  In both games so far, the Rangers were looking competitive right before they unraveled -- especially last night.

I wasn't naive to think the Rangers would win the AL West this year, but I was hoping that a surprising second place finish might be in the cards.  Now, it appears to be deja vu from last season and they'll be 19 games out of first by the all star break again.

I like some of the trades that Daniels made last season (Teixeira, et al) for young talent, but I'm starting to second guess the dyslexic approach of going back-and-forth.  Although I enjoy watching Hamilton launch balls like they deserved a drubbin', I'm not sure that trading Volquez away was the best move.

The Indians should serve as a blueprint for rebuilding -- Shapiro was brilliant a few years ago.  At the time, everyone thought he was nuts (trading away Thome of all players), but his plan worked.  Beane is another one -- everyone expects, or expected, Oakland to finish last.  Even though it's early, they are at least playing .500 ball.  Although it might be a few years before Oakland can consistently compete, at least they'll be in a good position.  If the Rangers don't commit fully to rebuilding, we'll get mediocrity in a few years with a middle-of-the-road approach...and, at least so far, not even be competitive in the interim.  I know the farm system is starting to look strong, but it can even be stronger with some additional young talent.

I think that Daniels should have gone all the way and stuck with a direction -- he still can.  It means allowing EVERYONE to be up on the block except for young talent.  Kinsler is the only starter that should be off limits.

Otherwise,