T.R. Sullivan writes that the Rangers are considering Michael Kirkman as the team's fifth starter.
Kirkman, who is out of options and who has not been among those considered to be fighting for the fifth starter job this spring, has been "the most impressive pitcher in camp," per Sullivan, and the team is thinking about having him, rather than Tepesch, be the team's fifth starter.
That would allow the Rangers to keep Nate Robertson or Joe Ortiz as the bullpen's second lefty, along with Robbie Ross, and let Nick Tepesch start the season in AAA.
Kirkman, a couple of years ago, was considered in the mix with Matt Harrison and Derek Holland as a potential future starter for the club, but command issues have plagued him the past two seasons, and have dropped him in the pecking order.
Sullivan also says that, while the Rangers have scouted Kyle Lohse, they are simply doing due diligence, and are not actively pursuing Lohse.