Botts booted

Today's card is number 427 in the 2002 Bowman set, Jason Botts.

Just before last night's loss to Kansas City the Rangers cut Jason from the Big League team. Botts was 6-for-38 (.158) in 15 games this spring. He had two home runs and 18 strikeouts.

After designating him for assignment the Rangers have 10 days to trade or release Botts. If they don't, they will have to see if he clears waivers before sending him back to the minors. To replace Jason in the lineup the Rangers called up first baseman Chris Shelton from AAA.

There are a lot of folks under fire as the Rangers struggle in this season where they had set their goal as a .500 year. Some think that Ben Broussard should have been the one to get the ax before Botts. I am not sure but it seems to me that he too may well be on his way out. Shelton is now slated for most of the starting time at first. One thing is for sure, if something positive doesn't start to happen Jason won't be alone, manager Ron Washington is already about two thirds out the door.