Stubbs added to provide speed off bench
Rangers activate outfielder, who has had a tough season
SAN DIEGO -- This has been a tough season for outfielder Drew Stubbs. A former No. 1 pick by the Reds in 2006, Stubbs was an everyday player for Cincinnati in 2009-12, in Cleveland in 2013 and in Colorado last season. That wasn't the case this season, but he still finds himself on a playoff contender going into September.
The Rangers added Stubbs to their 40-man roster Tuesday and will use him as a reserve outfielder for the final month of the season. His primary role could be as a pinch-runner.
"This has been a tough year for me, but at the same time I've got a new organization," said Stubbs, who is from Atlanta (Texas) and played at the University of Texas. "Me being from Texas, I can play close to home and be in a playoff race. It's the best of both worlds."
Stubbs began the season with Colorado, but was hitless in his first 23 at-bats and batting .118 when he was sent to Triple-A Albuquerque on May 20. He came back on July 2 but was designated for assignment on Aug. 12, released eight days later and signed by the Rangers to a Triple-A contract.
He understands he is likely not to get much playing time in September, but he does have speed off the bench and is a premium defensive outfielder.
"I think when you are on a team that's playing for something and is in the mix of a playoff race, you want to be a part of it and contribute as much as you can," Stubbs said. "Whatever it is, I just want to help my team win."
Worth noting
• The Rangers had to create two openings on the 40-man roster for Stubbs and pitcher Ross Ohlendorf. Alex Claudio was called up from Triple-A Round Rock and placed on the 60-day disabled list with a strained left groin muscle. They also designated reliever Roman Mendez for assignment.
• Closer Shawn Tolleson finished August with 10 saves, tying Roberto Osuna for the most in the American League. It was the most saves by a Rangers reliever in a single month since Joe Nathan had 11 in June 2013.
• Reliever Luke Jackson was called up for the second time Tuesday. He was with the Rangers from Aug. 6-10 while they were in Seattle, but did not pitch. Much of his family traveled all the way from Miami to see him.
Said Jackson: "I think they wanted to see Seattle more than see me. They got to watch me warm up a couple of times, so that was good."