Rangers fans: Frank Francisco?

[stumpak]

2 years ago this guy was famous for hucking a chair into the stands and breaking a woman's nose. But he also had a pretty nice season as the Ranger's set-up guy--good ratios and TONS of Ks. Then he blew out his elbow in spring training last year.

Does anyone know his status for 2006 and his expected role? For those of us who play in deep leagues or formats where set-up guys have value, he may be a really good sleeper if he will be near 100% by opening day.

[eightball61]

I heard that he's not expected back until May.

[moochie]

Francisco's role is really up in the air at this point. Joaquin Benoit looks to be the long man, Otsuka setting up, and of course Cordero closing. Add in Fabio Castro, the 1st overall pick of the Rule 5 Draft, and one of Kameron Loe, Juan Dominguez, or CJ Wilson. Francisco may be the 7th inning guy when he returns, but who knows ...

[Madison]

I heard that he's not expected back until May.

That's the latest I've heard as well.

He had TJ surgery last April, which is enough to keep me away from him on draft day this year. The 2007 season could be another story completely though.