Lewis gets back in action in intrasquad game

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers pitcher Colby Lewis needed just 11 pitches to get through a scoreless first inning in an intrasquad game on Tuesday. Lewis retired the side in order in his first time under game conditions since his hip replacement surgery last August.

"I wasn't nervous at all, but I was anxious to get out there and get the first one out of the way," Lewis said. "I certainly feel like I have more in there."

Lewis was the first one on the mound in a game between Team Buechele and Team Bogar that ended in a 4-4 tie after 5 1/2 innings.

"I thought Colby was really good," pitching coach Mike Maddux said. "Man, that was like vintage Colby. The fastball was back, the slider was biting, I can't come up with enough adjectives. He had good drive. He was able to get off his backside and drive with his back hip."

"He was Colby Lewis, the guy I've faced before with the Texas Rangers," catcher J.P. Arencibia said. "He's a guy that competes and battles, he's spot on with his location and he spins the ball well. He's got an idea out there. Obviously, it's the first of spring and everybody has to get better, but it was definitely encouraging."