Rangers re-sign RHP Nick Tepesch to minor league deal

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) Free agent right-hander Nick Tepesch signed a minor league contract Wednesday with the Texas Rangers that includes an invitation to major league spring training.

Tepesch is expected to be ready for spring training after missing all of last season because of right elbow inflammation. He also had surgery to correct Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which affects the nerves that pass through the shoulder into the neck.

The 27-year-old Tepesch was 9-17 with a 4.56 ERA in 42 major league games, all with the Texas in 2013 and 2014. Only Yu Darvish with 54 starts made more than Tepesch's 39 starts over those two seasons.

NOTES: The Rangers promoted Rafic Saab to director of international scouting. He joined the organization in 2006 as a scout in Venezuela and had been the director of the club's Latin America operations since 2014. ... New Rangers reliever Tom Wilhelmsen said Wednesday that his first thought after being traded from Seattle this offseason was pitching in the playoffs. Wilhelmsen, who has 67 career saves, said he looks forward to being part of a loaded bullpen. ... Work began this week on the installation of an advanced LED lighting system at the Rangers' ballpark. The system is designed to enhance the viewing experiences of fans attending games at the stadium and watching games on television. The project is expected to be completed by early March.