SURPRISE, Ariz. -- With the regular season still almost a month away, Rangers left-handers Cole Hamels and Martin Perez did their work in a Minor League "B" game on the back field Thursday afternoon.
The results weren't overwhelming against a bunch of free-swinging Minor Leaguers from the Padres' system.
Hamels was up first and allowed two runs in three innings. He allowed just two hits, including a home run to outfielder Auston Bousfield. Hamels walked one, struck out three and threw 44 pitches.
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"I was just basically ramping up in intensity, get up three times, build up my pitch count and get into the game," Hamels said. "I like going against guys who come out swinging the bat. It gives you a better idea of what you need to do and makes sure you are getting the right idea about pitch selection."
Perez, having trouble with his mechanics, went two innings and allowed three runs on four hits, a walk and two strikeouts. He threw 34 pitches.
"I was opening with my shoulder a little bit," he said. "But my arm feels good. I threw a good changeup and a good curveball. In Spring Training, after you pitch, you know what you did bad so the next morning you can make adjustments. I feel good. Every day I'm feeling better."
Jake Diekman also pitched against the Padres, putting up a scoreless inning with a hit and a strikeout.
Desmond, DeShields misplay ball
Ian Desmond started in left field for the fifth time on Thursday in an 8-2 loss to the White Sox and finally got a fly ball hit to him. It didn't go well.
Jacob May, leading off the first against Nick Martinez, hit a fly ball to left-center that Desmond and center fielder Delino DeShields both went after. Both also called for the ball, but DeShields backed off and Desmond lost it in the sun.
"That's a lesson that I need to learn, that the center fielder is in charge out there," Desmond said.
May ended up with a double and it started a five-run rally.
"Anything in the gap, I have to get," DeShields said. "There was a little miscommunication. He was anxious to get to the ball. We were calling it at the same time, and I didn't want a collision in Spring Training."
Worth noting
• Pitcher Shawn Tolleson said he felt "really good" after throwing 30-something pitches in a bullpen session on Thursday. The Rangers' closer has been dealing with soreness in his lower back and has yet to pitch in a Cactus League game.
• Rougned Odor remains day to day with a sore right oblique muscle. He said he is going to try to take batting practice on Friday.
• Nick Tepesch pitches Friday against the Brewers in Maryvale. Phil Klein starts on Saturday against the Athletics, with Colby Lewis pitching in a "B" game. Derek Holland starts on Sunday against the Angels in Tempe.
• The Rangers expect Prince Fielder back in camp on Saturday. He is in Dallas going through a sleep study.