John

Koronka

Koronka shouldn’t get a chance to replace Rich Hill in the rotation after amassing a 7.63 ERA in three starts earlier this season. He might just be up to act as a middle reliever for a few days.

Koronka pitched just one-third of an inning in his latest stint with the Cubs.

Koronka has remained decent for the most part, but a couple of recent shellings have pushed his ERA up to 5.31. His rotation spot isn’t yet in jeopardy, but if he continues to have problems, the Rangers could push him back each time an off day allows it.

The Rangers either had to do this or place Kip Wells on the disabled list, as they couldn’t go short a reliever after Adam Eaton’s ejection on Sunday. This buys them some time, as they can recall Koronka to start later this week if Wells needs to go on the disabled list. Even if Wells can make his next start, Koronka will probably be back in the Texas rotation soon enough.

This will help his case, but whether Koronka rejoins the Rangers’ rotation next week could depend on Edinson Volquez’s performance tonight.

Koronka could be on his way out of the rotation after going 0-3 with a 7.18 ERA in his last six starts. If the Rangers decide to replace him, Edinson Volquez would be on the short list of candidates to claim the spot.

He gave up four hits and walked four while striking out one. Koronka will start at Colorado against the Rockies next week, so those in AL-only formats still using the left-hander will want to bench him.

Koronka has given up three runs or fewer in seven of his 11 starts, but today’s struggles leave him 4-3 with a 4.87 ERA. He remains a weak bet for the long-term.

Koronka walked three and struck out just one, meaning he’s now failed to strike out more batters than he walks in five of his last six outings. AL-only leaguers who need innings can use him at home against the Mariners next week, but we’re still skeptical he’ll maintain long-term value.

Koronka likely would have stuck around with a better performance on Sunday, but he gave up six runs in 1 1/3 innings against the Tigers. John Rheinecker might get picked over him next time the Rangers reach down for a starter.