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Rangers outright Hurley, Beltre, three others

By Adam J. Morris
HOUSTON - JUNE 28: Shortstop Andres Blanco #3 of the Texas Rangers makes a play from a sitting position in the seventh inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on June 28, 2011 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON - JUNE 28: Shortstop Andres Blanco #3 of the Texas Rangers makes a play from a sitting position in the seventh inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park on June 28, 2011 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
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The Rangers have made some 40 man roster moves, outrighting five players -- Eric Hurley, Omar Beltre, Esteban German, Andres Blanco, and Merkin Valdez -- from the 40 man roster.

Hurley and Beltre are the two moderate surprises.  Both have seen their careers derailed because of injuries, and Beltre missed several years when he could not come into the United States after a marriage/visa scandal.  Beltre was more highly regarded than similarly marooned Alexi Ogando when both were allowed back last season, although Ogando has been the pitcher who has blossomed since then.

All of these players will become free agents, although I suspect that the Rangers will have some level of interest in bringing each of them back.  Beltre was the only player of the five with options remaining, so even if the Rangers had kept these guys on the 40 man roster all season, they'd either have to be on the major league roster to start the season or would have to clear waivers.