NewsBenson passes first rehab test
Righty reports no problems, could be activated into 'pen
Tentatively set to pitch again in Double-A on Friday, Kris Benson could be activated before then. (AP)
By T.R. Sullivan / MLB.com
05/03/09 7:53 PM ET
ARLINGTON -- Kris Benson pitched five innings on medical rehabilitation assignment without a problem on Sunday. The Rangers are now trying to decide if Benson will make a second rehab start or be added to their bullpen in place of Luis Mendoza. Benson is not likely to replace Scott Feldman in the rotation. Feldman is 1-0 with a 3.38 ERA in two starts and may be close to winning back a full-time job in the rotation again. Feldman started the season in the bullpen, but was added to the rotation when Benson went on the disabled list. Right now, the Rangers like what they see. "You've got to give him credit for what he's done," general manager Jon Daniels said of Feldman. "We have a confident feeling when he takes the mound for us." Benson, who has been on the disabled list with right elbow inflammation since April 22, allowed three runs in five innings for Double-A Frisco in a 6-0 loss to Corpus Christi. Benson allowed five hits and a walk while striking out four. He threw 62 pitches. "It was a good report," Daniels said. "He threw strikes, he had his normal velocity and a good breaking ball." Benson is tentatively scheduled to pitch again for Frisco on Friday, but could be activated if Texas has a need in the bullpen. He has never pitched in relief in his career, but neither had Jason Jennings before this season.T.R. Sullivan is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.
