Gomber's Performance, Bullpen Decisions Shape Rangers' Early Season

0:00In Dallas, it's March 22nd, and here's what is going on. The Texas Rangers wrapped up spring training with their final game on the road against Arizona. Jacob DeGrom skipped it to pitch in a minor league outing, so Austin Gomber took the mound for Texas. Gomber, who spent time with the Colorado Rockies, facing off against the Diamondbacks often, handled a strong lineup including several top hitters. Gomber delivered a solid effort, going 4.2 innings on 76 pitches with 45 strikes. He allowed five hits, three earned runs, two walks and two strikeouts. It was not flawless, but it showed he can provide length, which the Rangers value highly right now. Manager Skiv Shoemaker has stressed building depth beyond just the opening day roster. Players like Gomber fit that plan, as the team eyes contributors who could step up later. With Kumar Rocker likely grabbing the fifth starter spot, and Jacob Lats is back up. Gomber is not in that mix. Instead, Gomber could serve as a long reliever early on.

1:01Shoemaker expects starters to build up slowly, needing multi-ending arms in the first couple weeks. The Rangers already have options like Lats and Cole win, but spots remain open for someone like Gomber or Cal Quantrill. As the team heads back to Arlington, these bullpen decisions will shape their early season flexibility, keeping everyone ready for whatever comes. Next...