Rangers clear roster spot for Choo, send Faulkner to minors

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Texas Rangers have optioned left-handed reliever Andrew Faulkner to Triple-A Round Rock, opening up a roster spot for the likely return of outfielder Shin-Soo Choo from the disabled list.

Faulkner was sent down Thursday, an off day for the Rangers. The team said a corresponding roster move would be made Friday before the start of a three-game series in Houston.

Choo appears set to return to the Rangers after being out since April 9 because of a strained right calf. When he goes back to right field, and likely in the leadoff spot, rookie Nomar Mazara is expected to move from right field to left field.

Faulkner has a 7.94 ERA in eight relief appearances over two stints with the Rangers this season.