Nelson Cruz's $16 million deal with Rangers is backloaded

Cruz (quad tightness) was able to play in Sunday's game in

Cruz (quad tightness) was able to play in Sunday's game in Houston, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

Spin: Cruz's history with leg-related ailments is well known, but it sounds like this won't be enough to keep him sidelined. He'll be able to DH as needed now that the first wave of interleague games are over as well, so there's no reason to think those in weekly leagues won't get a full week out of him.

Slugger set on Cruz control

Texas outfielder Nelson Cruz went 3 for 5 with two RBI during the Rangers' 6-1 win over Houston in an interleague matchup on Sunday. Cruz, who was removed from Saturday's game against the Astros because of a minor quadriceps issue, remained in the lineup and improved his batting average to .274. He entered the game 2 for 13 over his past three games. "I think my approach has been good the last few games," Cruz said. "I'm seeing a lot of good pitches and wait for the right pitches.:

Analysis: Cruz showed no problems with his quadriceps and reached base three times for the second time in past seven games. Sunday's strong performance came after he ditched his batting gloves, a move he utilizes when he's struggling. "I don't know the last time I did it," said Cruz, who has driven in 23 runs this season. "I felt the bat better." Fantasy owners should look to keep Cruz active in all formats as he enters another hot stretch.

Nelson Cruz breaks out

HOUSTON -- Over the last three games, Nelson Cruz had struggled. He was 2-for-13 in that span.He broke out of his slump Sunday.Cruz finished with three hits, including a two-out two-run single as part of a five-run first inning."I think my approach has been good the last few games," Cruz said. "I'm seeing a lot of good pitches and wait for the right pitches."Cruz also took off his batting gloves, something he does when he's struggling. He did it Saturday night, too.