ARLINGTON, Texas -- The Texas Rangers have optioned infielder Hanser Alberto to Triple-A Round Rock to clear a roster spot for left-hander Yohander Mendez to make his first big league start.
Alberto was sent down Thursday, a day off for the Rangers. Mendez will start Friday night in the opener of a three-game series at home against the Colorado Rockies.
Mendez is 0-6 with a 5.26 ERA in 10 starts for Round Rock. His 10 previous MLB appearances have all been in relief. He has appeared in only one game for the Rangers this year.