Texas Rangers

The Texas Rangers optioned catcher Robinson Chirinos to Triple-A Round Rock Monday. Chirinos is clearing the way for A.J. Pierzynski's return from the DL Tuesday. 

Chirinos had three hits over 12 at-bats as the backup catcher while Pierzynski was on the shelf. 

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. 

Rangers manager Ron Washington said infielders Jurickson Profar and Leury Garcia will split time at second base with Ian Kinsler on the shelf, ESPN reports Monday.

Profar started Monday against Oakland. While the fans want to see Profar, a top prospect, every day, Washington wants to keep Garcia active.

"Leury's going to get some time there," Washington said. "So when you see Profar sitting, don't be surprised."

Kyle McClellan took another step towards getting back on a major league mound Monday, the Dallas Morning News reports. McClellan made his second appearance with Double-A Frisco.

He pitched an inning and did not give up a hit. McClellan last pitched in the majors in July 2012 with the Cardinals before he underwent season-ending shoulder surgery. He signed a minor league contract with the Rangers in the offseason, but injured his lat in spring training.

"I feel, now, better than I’ve felt in two years," McClellan said. "I don’t have to think about my shoulder when I go out there."