Rua gets nod as Rangers' starting left fielder

Rua on his impressive spring SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Ryan Rua has won the job as the Rangers' left fielder.

What appeared to be a platoon situation has changed into Rua being the starter and Drew Robinson either serving as a utility player or going to Triple-A Round Rock to play every day.

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"Ryan has been a good player for us," manager Jeff Banister said. "He has a good skill-set, he is on the club, let him go and play. Ryan Rua has earned the right to play left field for us."

Rua, 28, is hitting .211 but with three home runs and a club-leading 13 RBIs. The Rangers also like his defense in left field and his speed on the bases. Defense was the biggest difference between Rua…