Rangers taking games off

The Texas Rangers, our little North Texas, Texas Rangers, are sitting in first place over the seem to be rising Oakland Athletics. Who are 4 games back of the Rangers. Ron Washington seems to be giving players, core players days off against foes within our own division.

So is this really what's going on here? Do you really think Wash is doing this? Do the Rangers seem to be in a "Halo Hangover"?

I don't think so, with as many games as there are, I do believe that you should be able to give guys days off. I don't however, agree with this series as the time to give these core players the day off. The A's aren't a team that typically does well. BUT, this is a team that has talent, and no matter what you say, is on the rise. When you give a team with talent confidence, you open the door to take one in the nether regions. And now that's exactly what you've done. The A's, with their 10th inning win over the Rangers, now have a winning record. Which isn't saying a whole lot, but they are second in the American League West.

Our little Rangers head south down 45 to open up the Lone Star Series against the Houston Astros. Feliz hits the mound to start it off. Let's see how he comes back, and go Rangers.

Hamilton and the Battle

Ladies and gentlemen, I would first and foremost like to start this off with a word to the subject.

Josh, I respect you for coming out and taking this by the horns. You are a heck of a guy. Addiction, in one form or another, is the longest and hardest battle to fight. We, if I could speak for the fans, are behind you in this fight.

With that being said, I'll start this up. Josh Hamilton had a relapse in north Dallas at the very end of January. He's in a situation that is incredibly tough and there isn't a quick fix.

This latest incident comes with bad timing. Especially considering that Josh is looking for a contract that will essentially set his family up for the rest of their lives. On the other hand, the timing is good for the Rangers organization. The reason being, this could and should get Hamilton to lower his asking price. I don't condone an organization taking advantage of a players situation, but this is the time to try and make a jump. Especially a good faith jump.

This sounds amazingly callous, but this is the business and I guarantee that the Rangers' financials are looking at the situation the exact same way.

Josh, again, you are one hell of a person. Please don't stop being this accountable, respectful, and inspirational person. We still need more people like you.