The Rangers acquired Mike Carp last weekend, claiming him from the Boston Red Sox. The first baseman requested a trade just before the deadline, citing a dire need for more playing time.

"Playing once a week, it's hard to stay sharp," Carp said. "The opportunities were few and far between, so it led to an unfortunate situation. It just came down to playing time. I just wanted to go out and compete. It's frustrating not to be able to do that, and lose on top of it.”

To make room for Carp on the 40-man roster, the Rangers moved starter Alexi Ogando to the 60-day disabled list, and Chris Gimenez being designated for assignment.

The parting of ways sounded amicable enough, with Carp receiving understanding words from Sox manager John Farrell.

“I canʼt say the role heʼs going into there (in Texas), but we wish him will,” Farrell stated.

Carp made his debut with the Rangers Monday night against the Chicago White Sox, and was immediately put into the lineup, starting at first base and batting fifth against White Sox right-hander Hector Noesi. The Rangers lost 5-3 in a game shortened to seven innings by rain.

After spending his first four seasons in the Major Leagues with the Seattle Mariners, Carp spent the last two seasons with Boston where he played 128 games. In 2013, Carp hit .296 with nine homers, and 43 RBIs in 86 games. He played in six games, had one start and one RBI in the teamʼs run to a World Series championship.

By comparison, this season, Carp has played in only 42 games, with a .198 average, and nine RBIs. Missing all of June with a broken foot was also a major set back, but the need for playing time was obvious to Carp.

Though his principle position remains first base, Carp, a left handed hitter, affords the Rangers some versatility: he cand also be used in left field or as a designated hitter. But if Mondayʼs game was any indication, Carpʼs playing time will not immediately be without restriction. Heʼll likely often be sharing minutes with J.P. Arencibia for now.  

"I'm comfortable with whatever opportunity comes my way," Carp said. "It will be better than what I had in Boston. I've got two months to figure it out and get back on track.”

With a three game series against the Astros in Houston opening Friday, time is a luxury Carp doesnʼt have. A few wins against the Astros would get the struggling Rangers out of the American League cellar, something they despeately need.