ARLINGTON -- The Rangers haven't made any official move, but they are planning to option first baseman Ryan Garko and put him on outright waivers on Friday so that he can try to hook up with another team. The move is necessary because Nelson Cruz is expected to be activated in Toronto on Friday.
Garko was signed as a right-handed hitting backup first baseman who could spell Chris Davis (a left-handed hitter) against lefties. But now that the switch-hitting Justin Smoak is at first, that need isn't as great anymore. Garko has struggled to start the season, batting .091 in 33 at-bats.
Infielder Joaquin Arias is also going on the trip to Toronto and should be activated on Saturday. Another roster move would need to be made then to make room. It's likely that Craig Gentry would be sent down to the minors at that point.