GOODYEAR, Ariz. (AP) — Nelson Cruz drove in six runs with a grand slam, an RBI single and double off Travis Wood on Thursday and the Texas Rangers beat the Cincinnati Reds 15-13.
Cruz was struggling with a .184 average in 49 at-bats before his first home run this spring.
Texas starter Tommy Hunter left in the third inning because of a strained right groin. He allowed a three-run homer to Jonny Gomes prior to his early exit. Earlier in the day, the Rangers said Hunter would be in their rotation this season.
Reds star Scott Rolen was hit by a pitch in the first inning. The sure-handed third baseman made two errors in the third and was removed for a pinch-hitter because he was unable to hold the bat.
