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The Texas Rangers have moved pitcher Tyson Ross to the bullpen, per the beat guys on Twitter. Nick Martinez, who was slated to start for Round Rock tonight, has been scratched, and is expected to start tomorrow's game in Oakland.
The Rangers signed Ross to a one year, $6 million deal after he missed virtually all of the 2016 season with shoulder problems and then surgery to correct Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. The hope was that Ross would be able to get close to the form that made him a quality starting pitcher for San Diego in 2014 and 2015.
Instead, Ross has been a major disappointment, putting up a 7.04 ERA in 46 innings over 10 starts this year, while starting the season on the d.l., and then landing back on the d.l. Ross is struggling with both an inability to repeat his mechanics, which is hindering his command, and a loss of velocity.
It will be interesting to see what move the Rangers make to clear a 25 man roster spot for Martinez. Assuming Ross doesn't get designated for assignment, it would appear Nick Gardewine would be the most likely candidate to get sent down.