Friday morning Rangers stuff

Its Friday, the Rangers are in sole possession of first place in the A.L. West, and the home opener is today. What more could you ask for this morning?

Oh, and Elvis Andrus's contract extension was made official yesterday. That's pretty great, too.

Jeff Wilson writes that Andrus could have made more money if he'd waited to hit free agency, but he wanted to be a Ranger, and thus he agreed to the extension that will likely keep him in Texas at least the next six years. He also quotes Jon Daniels as saying about Elvis, "In a lot of ways he really is everything we’re about.”

T.R. Sullivan has a story about the Andrus extension, with Elvis being quoted on his desire to win a World Series ring here in Texas.

Anthony Andro also has a story about the Andrus extension.

Evan Grant writes that the Elvis signing gives the Rangers additional flexibility going forward.

Todd Wills asks if Elvis is the new Face of the Franchise.

Gil Lebreton has a column about the Elvis extension, and contrasts the decision to make the commitment to Elvis to the decision to let Josh Hamilton and C.J. Wilson leave.

Jean-Jacques Taylor has a column in which he says it is time for Rangers fans to move on from Josh Hamilton.

Gerry Fraley also has a column on Hamilton, with Hamilton saying that Rays fans, rather than Rangers fans, are the ones who have a reason to be angry with him.

At his blog, T.R. Sullivan offers some thoughts on C.J. Wilson and Josh Hamilton.

Drew Davison has a lengthy piece in the S-T about Josh Hamilton's departure from the Rangers, and his return to Arlington today.

Wills lists his five things to watch for in this series between the Rangers and the Angels.

Rick Gosselin writes that the Rangers pitchers need to perform against the Angels this weekend.

Christian Corona has a story about Nick Tepesch's solid 5 inning start for Round Rock. This was a tune up for his next start, which will be in the majors on April 9.