Berkman, Beltre to miss early Cactus League play

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Designated hitter Lance Berkman is not expected to be ready when the Rangers open Cactus League play on Friday because he is now dealing with a strained right calf muscle.

Adrian Beltre is dealing with the same issue and both players remain day-to-day on the Rangers' medical report. Berkman went through a full workout on Tuesday without any problems, but noticed some extra soreness on Wednesday.

"It's slightly more than normal muscle soreness, but I don't think it's anything to worry about," Berkman said.

Berkman came into camp still recovering from surgery on his right knee and did not play in either intrasquad game. Beltre also missed both intrasquad games and isn't expected to play in the early Cactus League games either. The Rangers open on Friday in the first of three straight games against the Royals in Surprise.

"If this were the World Series, I would be in there," Berkman said.