25 Josh Lindblom, RP

The Rangers optioned Monday's starter Josh Lindblom back to Triple-A Round Rock after his outing against the Athletics, MLB.com reports. 

He went 4 2/3 innings in an 8-2 loss and allowed four runs on seven hits. He struck out four and walked two over 88 pitches. The Rangers are expected to add another pitcher Tuesday in the corresponding roster move. 

Rangers reliever-turned-starter Josh Lindblom got his first turn in the rotation Monday at home against Oakland. When it was over, Lindblom had suffered his first defeat as a starter. 

Lindblom (0-1) struggled as he allowed four earned runs on seven hits and two walks over just 4 2/3 innings. He struck out four and was hurt by a Seth Smith solo homer in the second inning. He threw 88 pitches and his ERA is 7.71. 

Lindblom was just called up from Triple-A Round Rock and is expected to get another start Sunday at Seattle. 

In Josh Lindblom, you have within arm's reach a projected two-start option for Fantasy Week 8 (May 20-26) who is eligible at relief pitcher.

You also have a 25-year-old who has yet to start a game in the majors and who seemed destined to spend his entire career in middle relief just last year.

But if his numbers in the heavy-hitting Pacific Coast League this year count for anything, a return to the starting rotation has made him an even better pitcher. In 43 1/3 innings, he has a 2.08 ERA and 0.88 WHIP, allowing just 5.6 hits per nine innings.

Rangers general manager Jon Daniels recently pointed out that Lindblom has three plus pitches and is working on a fourth. A varied arsenal usually plays up better in a starting role than a relief role, so Lindblom strikes me as one of those pitchers who will fare better when stretched out. If I had a roster spot to play with, I might just take a flier on him.

The Rangers announced Thursday pitcher Josh Lindblom will be promoted from Triple-A Round Rock to start Monday against the Athletics after Alexi Ogando was placed on the 15-day disabled list with right biceps tendinitis. 

Lindblom has had success at Round Rock after being converted from a reliever to a starter. He is 4-0 with a 2.08 ERA and 0.88 WHIP in eight outings (seven starts). He has struck out 33 in 43 1/3 innings.