Moreland gets first start in left

ARLINGTON -- Mitch Moreland got his first start of the season in the outfield on Wednesday and his first Major League start ever in left field. Shin-Soo Choo, recovering from a sprained left ankle, was back in the lineup for the second straight game but still being used at designated hitter.

Manager Ron Washington said Choo could be ready to return to the outfield on Friday against the Angels in Anaheim. The Rangers are off on Thursday.

"It's better but I wanted to give him the next couple of days," Washington said. "He could go out there tonight but I just wanted to give him another day. This was my choice."

Moreland had extensive work in the outfield in Spring Training, both in left and right field. He has played 45 games in right field during his Major League career but Tuesday was his first time in left.

Washington had been using Michael Choice in left field while Choo was sidelined but wanted to make sure Moreland was in the lineup with right-hander Jesse Chavez on the mound for Oakland.

"Mitch does a good job in left field," Washington said. "He's worked out there every day. He'll be fine. But if I have a lead late in the game, I'll use my defensive replacement."