Washington has Rangers in good standing

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Rangers went into Thursday's game against the Twins sitting five games behind the Athletics in the American League West. That wasn't of great concern to manager Ron Washington.

Washington is concerned only with beating the Twins and making sure the Rangers are headed in the right direction. He believes they are, despite all they have gone through.

"I feel like we're playing consistent baseball," Washington said. "If we can play consistent baseball, we'll get our share. Our pitching has been pretty good and keeping us in ballgames, and our defense has tightened down. We're starting to put our offense together and do whatever is takes on that day.

"We're in real good shape. Anytime you're in single digits [behind in the standings], you're in good shape. It might take all year to bust it down, but you can't worry about making up four games in one day.

"I want to be better. I'm pleased with the way we're playing, but I know we can play better. We can still be a better offense, and we can still be better situationally. Those two things right there, if we can get locked in and be consistent in those areas, we've got a chance to be way over .500."