Levine to stay

According to multiple local and national reports, Rangers Assistant GM Thad Levine has issued a statement declaring his decision to forgo any current opportunities with other clubs – likely a reference to the Houston GM job – and to remain with the Texas Rangers. The Astros had secured permission from the Rangers to interview Levine earlier this week, but he apparently made this decision before any interview took place. No word on whether Houston has sought similar permission to talk to Rangers Senior Director of Player Personnel A.J. Preller, or what Preller's stance would be. Further, the club announced that Mitch Moreland had right wrist surgery today with an expected recovery time of 8-12 weeks, the outer limit of which would have him ready to go around the time that spring training games get underway.