Robbie Ross is kicking ass and taking names

The Rangers are reeling right now, as it relates to their pitching staff, with Yu Darvish apparently expected to start the season on the disabled list, Matt Harrison and Colby Lewis likely not ready to start the season, Derek Holland out for the next three months, and Neftali Feliz now being optioned to AAA.

With the Rangers needing a shot in the arm when it comes to their pitching staff, Robbie Ross pitched seven shutout innings, giving himself a 1.27 ERA on the spring, and seemingly locking up a spot in the rotation to start the season.  His final line for today:  7 IP, 4 hits, 3 walks, 8 Ks, no runs.

The game doesn't count, of course, but with all the bad news that we've been experiencing this spring, especially relating to the pitching staff, having Ross come up big has to make you feel a little better about things.  Ross has done everything asked of him this spring, and I would be shocked if he hasn't earned himself a spot in the rotation to start the season.

That spot may be short-lived -- Darvish, Harrison and Lewis will be joining Martin Perez in the rotation early in the year, assuming no more setbacks or injuries, meaning that there should be only one spot for Ross, Tanner Scheppers, and Joe Saunders to fill.

But given all the bad news we've had lately, Robbie Ross's performance today -- and all spring -- is something to feel good about.