Rangers call up infielder German, cut veteran Cora

TORONTO -- The Texas Rangers purchased the contract of infielder Esteban German from Triple-A Oklahoma City before Monday's game against the Blue Jays. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Rangers designated infielder Alex Cora for assignment.

An eight-year veteran who has also played for Oakland and Kansas City, German played in 19 games for the Rangers in 2009, batting .304 with no homers and four RBI.

German, who can play multiple infield positions and the outfield, stole 50 bases at Triple-A this season. He provides depth while shortstop Elvis Andrus (right hamstring) and outfielder Josh Hamilton (bruised ribs) nurse nagging injuries.

Cora began the season with the New York Mets before being released and becoming a free agent. The 13-year veteran signed a minor-league deal with Texas on Aug. 18 and was promoted to the majors on Aug. 24. He played in four games, batting .286 with no homers and no RBI.