Rangers could move Martinez to bullpen

OAKLAND -- The Rangers are not ready to option pitcher Nick Martinez back to Triple-A after his spot start against the Athletics on Tuesday night. Once Martinez recovers from throwing 92 pitches in the Rangers' 5-4 victory, he could end up in the bullpen.

Texas still sees Martinez as a starter in the long term, but the club is short one reliever in the bullpen after Pedro Figueroa went on the 15-day disabled list with inflammation in his left elbow. The Rangers are also without a long reliever after Hector Noesi was designated for assignment on Tuesday night to make room for Martinez.

Martinez went five innings against the Athletics on Wednesday and allowed four runs (two earned) on six hits, three walks and one strikeout.

"He did a heck of a job," manager Ron Washington said. "He really could have come unraveled. They made him work, but he did what he had to do."