Jake Smolinski is expected to open the season as the Rangers' fourth outfielder, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Smolinski is expected to open the season as the Rangers' fourth outfielder, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Analysis:

Smolinski and Ryan Rua were both told that they'll make the Opening Day roster, and while Smolinski was once viewed as the favorite to get most of the playing time in left field, it now appears Rua will fill that role. Smolinski is the more versatile of the two players, and it's still quite possible he gets more at-bats than Rua, especially if Rua struggles against right-handed pitching early on.