Texas Rangers

The Rangers’ struggling offense has shown a pulse of late, which explains why they’re putting

“At this point, now you almost expect him to go up there and drive in runs and drive the ball. The thing that’s most impressive to me is the home runs to the opposite field.” A’s manager Bob Melvin on first baseman Yonder Alonso’s career-high 12 homers through Sunday

distance between themselves and the AL West cellar. Among the bats heating up is the one belonging to Nomar Mazara.

“I’ve just tried to keep working hard and never give up, never put my head down and do the best I can,” Mazara said.

Mazara is among the Rangers trying to compensate for the loss of Adrian Beltre. He remains out because of a calf issue but could return by month’s end.

The Rangers added another key injury when outfielder Carlos

Gomez went on the disabled list because of a hamstring strain. He’s expected to miss 4-6 weeks.

Tyson Ross, signed by the Rangers in the offseason, is expected to pitch in extended spring training Thursday. Ross, who had shoulder surgery, could make two minor league starts after that before being considered for a return to the majors.

General manager Jon Daniels once went on a scouting mission to Japan to evaluate Yu

Darvish, which led to the team signing the right-hander. Daniels returned to Japan to train his eye on Shohei Otani, a pitcher and a slugger.

Darvish said Otani is the real deal. “He is the best player in Japan,” Darvish said. “(Daniels) loves to see the best players. And he wants to build a great team.”

If the Rangers sign Otani, it could diminish Darvish’s chances of returning next year. Darvish is in the last year of his contract, and there have been no discussions regarding an extension.