Rangers mull Kirkman as a starter; Still adverse to signing Lohse

Michael Kirkman threw four innings and 67 pitches in a Minor League game on Friday night. The four innings were by design.

Kirkman has been the most impressive pitcher in camp and the Rangers are starting to wonder if he should be their fifth starter.

The Rangers are still leaning heavily toward rookie Nick Tepesch but Kirkman is at least getting consideration again now that Robbie Ross is going back to the bullpen.

The Rangers know that Kirkman could start for the first couple of months and then slide back to the bullpen once Colby Lewis is ready to come off the disabled list.

Rangers officials acknowledge they are keeping an eye on Kyle Lohse and sent a scout to his latest simulated game. But the Rangers are still holding to their stance they will not sign Lohse this spring. The Rangers are ready to go with what they have here in camp, whether it’s sticking to Tepesch as the fifth starter or going with Kirkman.