Gomez likely to join Rangers on Thursday

Carlos Gomez may make it into the Texas Rangers' lineup before the week is over.

Signed by Texas as a free agent after being released by the Houston Astros, Gomez has been plying his trade in the minor leagues as he attempts to reinvigorate his bat.

If Tuesday's outing with Triple-A Round Rock goes according to plan, Gomez's name will likely be on the team sheet for the Rangers' tilt against the Cleveland Indians on Thursday.

"Last night he really drove the baseball," manager Jeff Banister said, according to the Star-Telegram's Jeff Wilson. "I watched the video. He seemed to be in control of the swing, in control of the at-bat. A lot calmer, more like the Gomez I'd seen in the past."

A two-time All-Star during his days with the Milwaukee Brewers, Gomez struggled mightily with the Astros since being traded midway through the 2015 season, slashing .221/.277/.342 in 126 games with Houston.

Though a small sample size of just two games, Gomez has performed well in the Rangers' minor-league system, recording four hits in nine at-bats, including a double and a triple, and two RBIs.

The 30-year-old's position in the Rangers' outfield will depend on what side of the mound the opposing pitcher throws from. When facing southpaws, Gomez will play in right while Delino DeShields slots in at left and hits leadoff, according to Banister. Nomar Mozara and Gomez will play in right and left, respectively, when facing right-handers.