Feliz, who's in the midst of transitioning from closer to starter, has been limited in recent days by a sore shoulder. However, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Feliz "felt good" Sunday after a 43-pitch bullpen session. So long as Feliz feels okay the day after, he'll likely start Tuesday against the Padres with a targeted workload of 65-70 pitches.
Feliz is slated to be Texas's number-four starter this season. If he's unable to be a part of the opening-day rotation, then the Rangers certainly have the depth to compensate (Alexi Ogando or Scott Feldman could fill the void). However, they're certainly hoping that Feliz, their most gifted young arm, is able to be a core contributor this season. Considering it's spring and Feliz is changing roles, his shoulder shouldn't be cause for concern, barring further developments.
Elsewhere in injury news ...
- CBSSports.com Insider Jon Heyman reports that the injured lat of Nationals outfielder Michael Morse is more serious than initially believed. It's possible he won't be ready by opening day.
- Mets third baseman David Wright (strained abdominal) could make his Grapefruit League debut on Monday. [MLB.com]
RELATED: Projected lineups, rotations and closers for all 30 teams - Cubs closer Carlos Marmol, who's been limited in recent days because of hand cramping, is slated to see game action on Monday. As well, right-hander Kerry Wood (back) should return to the mound soon. [MLB.com]
- Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez had to depart Sunday's game after being drilled in the ribs by a Brayan Villareal fastball, but he's expected to be back in the lineup on Tuesday. [New York Daily News]
- Dodgers lefty Ted Lilly (stiff neck) could miss his next scheduled start on Tuesday. If that's the case, then his status for opening day could be in doubt. [MLB.com]
- Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton (knee) was not in the lineup on Sunday. The club still hopes he'll be ready to start the season.
- Blue Jays right-hander Dustin McGowan has been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis in his right foot. The team says the injury is not serious and is listing him as day-to-day. McGowan is presently fighting his way back after a series of shoulder injuries. [Toronto Star]
- Orioles outfielder Endy Chavez (groin) might be able to return to the lineup for Monday's tilt against the Pirates [MLB.com]
- White Sox right-hander Jesse Crain (oblique), who still has an outside shot at winning the closer job, should be able to return to the mound on Tuesday. [Mark Gonzales via Twitter]
- Tampa Bay outfielder Desmond Jennings (shoulder) will begin playing catch on Monday or Tuesday. [Joe Smith via Twitter]
- Giants right-hander Ryan Vogelsong (back) will start Monday against the Royals. [Alex Pavlovic via Twitter]