Gentry draws another start after big night

Published Jun. 9, 2012 2:03 p.m. ET

foxsports

SAN FRANCISCO -- Craig Gentry followed up his 5 for 5 performance Friday by drawing a start against San Francisco right-hander Ryan Vogelsong.

Gentry's starts normally come against left-handers but Texas manager Ron Washington changed that up.

"The guy had a 5 for 5 night," Washington said. "He deserves to go out there."

Two of Gentry's hits Friday came against right-handed pitchers and he's 9 for his last 23 against right-handers.

Gentry, who is now hitting .341, looked forward to the opportunity.

"I feel good right now," Gentry said. "It's not like I've never faced a right-hander before. It's going to be a little bit different. I saw two last night. I've got to keep my same approach."

Washington said that Gentry would have started Saturday even if David Murphy was hitting well. Murphy is hitting just .200 over the last 23 games.
Ogando expectations

Washington is hoping right-hander Alexi Ogando can give the Rangers around 60 pitches when he makes his first start of the season Sunday.

Washington said the key for Ogando will be having quick innings and dialing down his velocity. Ogando can hit triple digits on the radar gun in relief but that will be tough to do if he wants to pitch deep into games.

Washington said Ogando's rotation spot is start-to-start. Ogando, who was an All-Star last season as a starter, is fine with whatever role the team has for him.

"Whatever they ask of me I'm going to do whatever it takes," Ogando said. "It's not my decision."