SEATTLE -- The early returns suggest Ryan Rua can handle the limited role of being a utility player, but it might not stay limited for long.
Rua, the Rangers' fourth outfielder and backup first baseman, was in the lineup for the third straight game on Tuesday night. He was playing first base after getting four hits in his first 12 at-bats on the season.
"There is always a concern about a young player adapting himself to not playing every day," manager Jeff Banister said. "Finding a way to get him the appropriate number of at-bats that allow him to find the rhythm of the season is a challenge.