Dyson assumes Rangers’ closer role

OAKLAND — Rangers manager Jeff Banister is taking Shawn Tolleson out of the closer’s role. He will be replaced by Sam Dyson.

“We will make that change in the interim,” Banister said Wednesday before the Rangers’ game with Oakland. “I continue to look at the body of work. Tolleson, going back to last year, was effective, efficient in that spot. Even now he is on top [tied with two others] of the American League in saves.

“It’s a tough stretch for him. This is not unlike a position player who is struggling. … Unplug him, give him an opportunity to exhale.”

Tolleson gave up a two-out grand slam to Khris Davis in the bottom of the ninth inning in an 8-5 loss to the A’s on Tuesday. It was his fourth blown save this season after having only two last season.

“Anytime you go out there and don’t get the job done, it stinks,” Tolleson said. “It hurts. No matter how many times you have success, if you have a few bad outings, it hurts a little more. Like last night, our guys battled and took a lead in the ninth inning. To go out and give it back up, that stinks.

“It’s not uncommon for guys to go through rough patches. It’s part of the game. I’m mature enough to know this will happen. I also know that through tough times, you learn perseverance and character, and you have hope. I’m mature enough to realize a lot of good can come out of this.”

Tolleson said he had a good talk with Banister on Wednesday morning and said he wasn’t surprised that he is being taken out of the closer’s role.

“More than anything, I want this team to win,” said Tolleson. “I care about this team more than any other I …

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