LAS VEGAS (AP) -- A split-squad game meant Julio Borbon got a chance to prove what he can do.
Borbon batted second for the Texas Rangers on Saturday while Elvis Andrus was moved up to leadoff. With regular leadoff hitter Ian Kinsler with the other half of the Rangers in Surprise, Ariz., Borbon was able to thrive at the top of the order between Andrus and Josh Hamilton during a 12-7 victory over the Chicago Cubs at Cashman Field.
Borbon, competing with Craig Gentry for an outfield spot, had a pair of hits, including a two-run, bases-loaded single with two outs in the fifth.
"I feel comfortable anywhere," said Borbon, who is hitting .350. "I don't have a preference in the lineup as long as I'm getting an opportunity to go out there and contribute."
Cubs starter Jeff Samardzija retired his first nine batters before Elvis Andrus singled leading off the fourth and scored on Josh Hamilton's single.
Rangers starter Derek Holland allowed one hit in four scoreless innings, struck out two and walked none. Mike Adams struck out the side in the fifth.
Samardzija allowed one run and three hits in four innings with three strikeouts and no walks.
"I'm sure he had his pitches working for him," Borbon said, "and at the same time we did not do what we wanted to do the first couple innings."
Texas broke open the game with a five-run eighth that included Renny Osuna's three-run homer.
