AL champion Rangers facing hurdles in repeat bid
ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) - The Texas Rangers will begin the defense of their American League championship with plenty of big bats.
There are also concerns about their pitching.
New third baseman Adrian Beltre, AL MVP Josh Hamilton and Michael Young are all back in the lineup. But the rotation will not include Cliff Lee, and Tommy Hunter has a groin strain. Derek Holland is coming off a horrible outing in spring training and C.J. Wilson went only two innings his final Arizona start.
The Rangers open the season Friday at home against the Boston Red Sox.
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