Spring Training notes.

Things seem to be cooking along ok in the Rangers' Spring Training camp. The workouts continue and the two intrasquad games are history. So far most of the guys seem to be doing well.

Three of them are headed off to play in the World Baseball Classic. None are playing for the United States. Nelson Cruz will play for the Dominican Republic and Max Ramirez will join Venezuela's squad. Frank Catalanotto, seen here on card number 164 of the 2002 Donruss Fan Club set, is slotted to don Italy's uniform. Hopefully all three do well.

John Bannister is dealing with soreness in his pitching arm. Since he missed all of last season with Tommy John surgery this could be a cloud on the horizon.

Back on the bright side. So far Andruw Jones is looking like a new man. Well, an old man really. Apparently he is looking like he might have gotten his previous form back.

Kris Benson is slated to start today against the Royals in the Spring Training opener. He is trying to crack the rotation after signing a contract similar to Jones' and this could be his chance to get a foot in the door. So far pitching coach Mike Maddux has been impressed by what he has seen from Benson.