ARLINGTON, Texas — Scott Feldman jokingly referred to himself as a utility pitcher Wednesday afternoon.
Feldman's utility-like week continues Thursday when he makes a spot start for Colby Lewis, who went on the disabled list Tuesday with tightness in his right forearm. Sunday night Feldman was warming in the ninth inning during the game against Colorado. Monday he was warming in the first inning with Justin Grimm struggling.
Feldman, who will make his ninth start of the season, understands weeks like this come with the territory.
"It was tough at the beginning of the year but I've sort of gotten used to what my role is," said Feldman, who will be starting with eight days' rest. "I kind of got used to the program. I try to go out there and stay mentally involved and do as well as I can. In a perfect world, which it's not, I would like to know what I'm doing all the time. For right now, this is fine. I'm just happy to be getting the ball."
Feldman (1-6) had his best start in his last outing. He allowed two earned runs against San Diego and picked up his lone win of the season in the 7-3 victory.
No plan yet
The Rangers are still undecided on a Saturday starter. Right-hander Justin Grimm and left-hander Martin Perez are both candidates but that could change if either are needed in relief the next couple of days.
Texas went into Wednesday's game without Michael Kirkman available. Kirkman pitched five innings in relief of Grimm Monday. Mark Lowe, who pitched three innings Monday, was available for an inning.
Decision time looming
Texas manager Ron Washington will get the results of the player voting Friday as he prepares to fill out the American League All-Star team, which will be announced Sunday.
Washington should have more pitchers available this year than last year. Pitchers who pitch on the Sunday before the All-Star Game will have the option of pitching in the Tuesday game with a pitch count. Sunday pitchers last year weren't allowed to pitch in the game.
"It means everything that I can go with everything the American League has to offer," said Washington, who will manage the AL team for a second-consecutive year. "The National League certainly had the best they had to offer. Make no excuse, we still got beat. But I'd still like to have all my bullets."
