Scheppers downplays severity of back spasms

SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers pitcher Tanner Scheppers remains sidelined with spasms in his lower back, but he does not expect to be sidelined long. Scheppers felt something flare up while lifting weights on Tuesday, but said he was feeling much better on Wednesday. He will be examined on Thursday by Dr. Keith Meister, and the hurler's hoping to be cleared to throw again.

"It shouldn't be serious," Scheppers said. "It should be just a couple of days. I just want to make sure I don't change the way I throw."

Scheppers said he doesn't think the problem comes from trying to build up as a potential candidate for the rotation.

"If I did it pitching, it would be something to worry about," Scheppers said. "But I did it in the weight room doing a little too much. I just tweaked it."

Meister is also expected to check out Matt Harrison on Thursday. Harrison is sidelined with some stiffness in his neck and is taking a couple of days off from throwing. But the Rangers are expecting the lefty to be cleared by Meister.