SURPRISE, Ariz. (AP) — Lance Berkman is set to make his spring training debut for the Texas Rangers on Thursday.
Berkman has been bothered by a mild right calf strain, and the Rangers have been cautious with the 37-year-old switch-hitter. He played only 32 games with St. Louis last season because of two operations on his right knee and a left calf strain.
While being held out of the first six spring games, Berkman has still been going through workouts and some base-running drills. He is scheduled to be the designated hitter Thursday against Cleveland.
Berkman said Wednesday that he feels good and is looking forward to getting into games.
The Rangers say Adrian Beltre is “still progressing well” from his calf strain, though they haven’t said yet when he will play.
