Rangers reinstate Tolleson, option Claudio

ARLINGTON — The Rangers reinstated right-hander Shawn Tolleson from the MLB Family Medical Emergency list before Friday’s game against the Mariners and optioned left-hander Alex Claudio to Triple-A Round Rock.

Tolleson was placed on the list on May 27 to spend time with his father, Mark, in Allen, Texas, who is dealing with colon cancer.

“This past week it’s been nice to be home and be with my family,” Tolleson said. “Mentally, physically, I feel refreshed and ready to go.”

The 28-year-old right-hander threw live batting practice at Double-A Frisco on Tuesday and has been doing some flat-ground work as well. He was replaced as the team’s closer on May 18 and has a 10.13 ERA through 16 innings this season.

“I’ll never admit I needed a mental break, but it was nice. I feel refreshed,” Tolleson said. 

Banister said the Rangers decided to stick with right-hander Luke Jackson in the bullpen over Claudio, pointing to Jackson’s power fastball as an asset, which is 94.42 mph on average, according to Statcast™.

Claudio picked up the loss in the team’s walk-off defeat to the Indians on Wednesday, and has made just six appearances since being recalled from Triple-A Round Rock on May 8.

“At this time, a tough decision for us,” Banister said. “We just …

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