Hurley will fill Rangers rotation void

ARLINGTON -- The Rangers plan to bring up Eric Hurley from Triple-A Oklahoma to fill the fifth spot in their starting rotation. Hurley will make his debut for Texas on Thursday at Kansas City.

In 13 starts this season for the RedHawks, Hurley is 2-5 with a 5.30 ERA and 72 strikeouts to 29 walks. However, in his last six starts, he has a 3.46 ERA, averaging more than six innings per start.

"Our people feel like he's made steady progress, has been making adjustments, learning to pitch with his stuff," said Rangers general manager Jon Daniels. "All young pitchers go through a period where they move from 'good arm' to 'good pitcher' and Eric's in that transition. We think he's deserving of an opportunity to help the club."

Hurley will fill the gap in Texas' rotation previously occupied by Sidney Ponson. Ponson was designated for assignment Friday due to actions that were disrespectful to club personnel.