Interview with Newy Scruggs of KXAS - Dallas

Newy Scruggs covers the Cowboys and Rangers for KXAS TV, an NBC affiliate in Dallas, TX. He stopped by to answer a few questions on the Texas Rangers.


Baseball-Rumors: A lot has been said about Milton Bradley's problems with his anger, both on and off the field. Though there's no question of his ability, is this a move that will help this ballclub or will this be like any of his stops in the past?

Newy Scruggs: Ultimately, the Rangers manager Ron Washington wanted him and feels he can get the job done. Wash worked with him in Oakland so they have history. The big question is Bradley's health. I'm not sure if he'll be ready to start the season coming off that knee injury. Bradley signed a one year deal full of incentives so look for him to be on his best behavior.


Baseball-Rumors: Jason Jennings, another one of those pitchers coming off shoulder surgery. What did the Rangers see in him that said he's going to be better than last year?

Newy Scruggs: This is the Texas Rangers. They are cheap and taking a chance on Jennings fits the way this club operates. Last year they gambled on closer Eric Gagne and it paid off. Jennings told the DFW media he was fine and expects to be a factor in the rotation.


Baseball-Rumors: Japanese reliever Kazuo Fukumori. What's your scouting report on him and what does he bring to the Ranger bullpen?

Newy Scruggs: One of the guys I really trust gave me this take on him, "He’s not a closer but he should be effective. Less of an impact than Otsuka had here, but he’ll help. Works at 88-91 mph with a split-finger designed to coax a lot of ground balls."


Baseball-Rumors: There was a lot of talk about Akinori Otsuka after the Rangers decided not to offer him a contract. Did they see something in his medical reports that they didn't like or was it just a case of wanting to move on?

Newy Scruggs: The guy is not healthy


Baseball-Rumors: How do you rate the Josh Hamilton deal with the Reds? Is he a guy that's really going to help this ballclub?

Newy Scruggs: If he can stay healthy, he has the chance to put up some big numbers. This ballpark is tailor made for left handed hitters with power. The fans have taken to him already.