AL West: Rangers trade Andrew Faulkner to Orioles

The Texas Rangers have traded Andrew Faulkner to the Orioles for a player to be named later or cash. The 24-year old lefty pitcher spent the 2015 season and the beginning of 2016 on the Rangers’ roster before bouncing back and forth between the majors and Triple-A. It’s unclear why Texas traded him as there’s no apparent reason for them to open up a spot on the 40-man. However, Faulkner was not totally primed to be a mainstay, and still needed some ironing out in his mechanics. Perhaps the Rangers want to leave their options open for someone more ready to play on a consistent basis.

Here’s what other news is boppin’ around the American League West:

• George Springer hit a walk off in the 13th inning and this is why baseball is so glorious.
• Daniel Nava hit two home runs yesterday and we’d like to be shocked but we’re not.
• Dan Altavilla has tweaked his slider and it’s going to make the AL West very interesting this season.
• The Athleticss place John Axford on DL and bring up Jesse Hahn to fill his spot.
• How many games will the Rangers win in 2017?
• Here’s a preview of everything happening in the Astros farm system this season.
• Danny Espinosa has the magical baseball moment that we all dream about.
• Don’t worry about Mariners rookie Mitch Haniger, he’s going to adjust.
• Bob Melvin hasn’t given fans confidence in making the right call to the bullpen thus far...and we’re only a few games into the season.
• Andrew Cashner’s rehab will start on April 10th.
• Astros prospect Jonathan Arauz suspended 50 games.
• The Angels have a pretty promising crop of minor leaguers to look forward to.
• Mariners claim Evan Marshall while transferring Drew Smyly to the DL.