Texas Rangers 2013: Keep Looking Lohse, Lowe Is the Guy for Texas

The Texas Rangers were looking for starting pitching and they got it Wednesday by signing free-agent right-handed pitcher Derek Lowe to a minor league contract, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News.  

While it was initially reported by Jeff Wilson of the Star-Telegram that there was initial interest in free-agent starter Kyle Lohse (both players are represented by agent Scott Boras), the Rangers took the less costly approach and inked Lowe to a deal.

While this in no way guarantees Lowe a position with the club, he will most likely break camp with the team and spot start or come out of the pen in long relief when needed.  And with the recent injury to starter Martin Perez (fractured ulna will keep him away from throwing for at least a month), help couldn't have come at a better time.  

Though the 39-year-old Lowe is on the tail-end of his career, he can still provide the Rangers with innings and adding depth to the staff.

Last year with the Indians and Yankees, Lowe had a 9-11 record with a 5.11 ERA and 55 strikeouts in 142.2 innings pitched.

I know, his numbers were nothing spectacular, but he did pitch well in relief for the Yankees with a 3.04 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 23.2 innings out of the pen.

While this signing leaves plenty of question marks as to where and when Lohse will sign, it at least gives Rangers fans a proven veteran with playoff experience going into 2013.  

Will Lowe make a difference with the Rangers this year?  He hasn't pitched well since 2010, but at least he can eat up innings for the team.

What do you think?