Beltre has admirer in Arenado

ARLINGTON -- Nolan Arenado was a third baseman growing up in Southern California, a second-round pick by the Rockies out of El Toro High School in 2009. Now he is one of the hottest hitters in the big leagues, taking a 27-game hitting streak into Thursday's game.

He is also getting the opportunity to play against one of his heroes growing up as his opposite number at third base is Adrian Beltre for the Rangers.

"It's humble to hear that from a guy that who is as good as he is," Beltre said. "It makes me appreciate what I've done in the game. But it's nice to see a guy like that come up and have the success he's had just two years into his career. He's learned so much and he's playing reguarly in the big leagues."

Beltre has always been a sociable player, more than willing to help younger players even on other teams and it is clear from their interactions on the field that he has quickly developed a good relationship with Arenado.

"I don't know how much I can help him, he's already one of the three best third basemen in the big leagues along with Manny Machado and Evan Longoria," Beltre said. "The kid's offense is getting better and his defense is not bad. He is making every play and looking comfortable."