We've had good reports on him the last couple of years. He's a tall (6-foot-4), athletic pitcher who throws strikes with all three pitches. He has a live arm and a chance to have an above-average breaking ball. He has an advanced feel for pitching.
I haven't been contacted, the Rangers haven't been contacted and I haven't had a chance to talk to Coco. We support him and whatever decision he makes. I understand he's under some pressure with national pride at stake.
In the short term, this is the first camp where he has been completely healthy and we have a chance to evaluate him. He has taken good care of his back. I'm encouraged with the effort level and how much he has worked on his defense.
The circumstances in the big leagues have changed but the reasons for sending them out haven't. We want to give them a chance to succeed and come at their own pace.
This was a chance to address a need, ... If there are bold moves available that give us an opportunity to take big steps, we'll take them. I'm not sure what this signals other than the fact that we're looking to get better.