Joaquin

Benoit

Although Texas is non-committal, Benoit seems the likely choice over Triple-A pitcher Chris Young. How he performs will dictate whether he remains in the rotation or goes back to long relief for the Rangers, once they start getting some healthy arms back in Texas.

Our money is on Benoit, who looked good in a four-inning emergency start on Saturday against the Angels.

He hopes to return to the Rangers’ bullpen my the middle of September.

He hopes to be recovered in time to be activated by the middle of next month.

Someone has to go to make room for Chris Young, tonight’s starter.

Benoit could take over R.A. Dickey’s spot in the rotation.

The Rangers have been planning to give Benoit another chance to start either Wednesday or Thursday. That could get pushed back, although Benoit said he was feeling better yesterday. Manager Buck Showalter said, ''if he’s healthy before the end of the season, we’ll probably find a start for him.’'

Benoit, out with elbow tendinitis, is eligible to come off the DL on June 16 and could rejoin the rotation the next day.

Either Todd Van Poppel or Victor Santos will follow on Saturday. The Indians aren’t hitting very well right now, but you’re taking a big risk if you use Ranger pitchers.

Benoit is out of options, so he could be let go if he continues to struggle.