Lack of throwing hurts Andrus

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Rangers shortstop Elvis Andrus did not play winter ball this offseason. He also didn't do any throwing.

Andrus is paying for his idleness by dealing with a sore arm. He was bothered by a sore shoulder earlier this spring and now it's a sore elbow that is keeping him out of the lineup.

"I'll learn from my mistake next offseason and have a throwing program," Andrus said.

Andrus did not play Thursday against the Reds, but did get multiple at-bats in a Minor League game back in Surprise. He is scheduled to be examined by Dr. Keith Meister on Friday.

"I'm not worried about it," Andrus said. "I'm just trying to be careful about it and let Meister do his job. Every spring it happens, it takes time to get the arms and legs going. This year it's just taken a little longer. It's nothing new or concerning or makes me feel I won't be ready for Opening Day.

"But I feel more rested and that's one thing I was looking for. As soon as the elbow clears up, I think not playing winter ball will help. Having that rest will have me performing at my best throughout the season."

Andrus played much better in the second half last season. He hit .242 with a .280 slugging percentage before the All-Star break and .313 with a .405 slugging percentage afterwards.