ATLANTA -- The Rangers continued to add depth to their roster as they pursue an American League Wild Card berth, calling up outfielder Jared Hoying from Triple-A Round Rock and left-hander Yohander Mendez from Double-A Frisco on Monday.
"I am pretty excited to get back up here and help the team win," Hoying said. "That is all that matters right now. We are in September and in a Wild Card race, and I want to do whatever possible to help the team win."
Both players have spent time with Rangers this season and give the team more options in late-game situations. Mendez -- ranked as Texas' No. 4 prospect -- is projected to be used as a reliever despite having some starting experience. He pitched three innings and allowed six runs with the Rangers this season.
In 24 games with Frisco, Mendez was 7-8 with a 3.79 ERA. He also struck out 124 batters and could be used as a high-leverage reliever when called upon.
"It is a process, and I know that I am a starter, but if the team needs me as a reliever, that is what I am here for," Mendez said. "They called me to help, and that is what I am going to do."
Mendez has worked on his fastball command at Round Rock and said he feels comfortable with his control. He is working to balance it with his changeup to keep hitters off-balance at the plate.
Last season, Mendez missed locations at times, but Rangers manager Jeff Banister said accounts have been positive.
"All the reports have been that he can come in and pitch in a Major League situation," Banister said.
Banister also said Mendez could be used against lefties or as a multiple-innings reliever. The southpaw was available in the bullpen Monday night against the Braves.
In other roster news, Jhan Marinez was designated for assignment on Friday and cleared waivers. He has been outrighted to the Round Rock roster.
Kela progressing
The Rangers received some good news on right-hander Keone Kela, who is working his way back from right shoulder soreness.
Kela pitched a bullpen session over the weekend, and reports were that he looked good. He could get back on the mound during the series in Atlanta.
"Bringing him on the road trip is the next step to possibly getting him back," Banister said. "He is further along than [Matt Bush], and when you bring a guy on the road with you, it is a good sign."
Kela has a 2.36 ERA in 34 1/3 innings this season. He is a key member of the Rangers' bullpen, with 46 strikeouts in 34 appearances.
Radio broadcaster switcheroo
Radio broadcasters Eric Nadel and Eleno Ornelas will switch broadcast booths during Hispanic Heritage Night on Friday at Globe Life Park when the Rangers face the Yankees.
For an inning, Nadel will move from the English broadcast to the Spanish booth. Ornelas, who does the Spanish broadcast, will move to the English booth an inning later.
Ornelas will do the play-by-play on 105.3 The Fan during the fourth inning of the game. He will also work with the Rangers English network as well.
Nadel will work play-by-play for the Rangers Spanish network in the third inning.