Kinsler stopped

An 0-for-4 showing Friday brought the longest hitting streak in baseball this season to an end, but Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler said Saturday he’s ready to start another.

The run matched the second-longest in club history and is another impressive number posted this season by the first-time All-Star. Kinsler continues to pace the American League in several categories, including average, hits and runs.

Kinsler wasn’t the only hitter who struggled against Glen Perkins and four relievers as the Rangers were shut out for the first time in 135 games dating to last season.

"I didn’t really make an adjustment in four at-bats, and popped them all up to the right side," Kinsler said. "I would have liked to keep going, but it’s got to end some time, I guess. Hopefully, I can get another one started and get to 30."

Saltalamacchia improves

Catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia ate more than soup for the first time Friday night and again Saturday as his stomach virus appears to have run its course.

Saltalamacchia, who had to be hospitalized Wednesday, said he lost eight to 10 pounds. He has worked to regain his conditioning as well as test his injured groin.

Manager Ron Washington said he expects Saltalamacchia to be ready by Monday, which would likely mean that Taylor Teagarden will be sent back to Triple A Oklahoma and be eligible to compete in the Olympics.

Feldman in middle

Scott Feldman will be a middle reliever when he returns to the Rangers’ roster Monday, Ron Washington said.

The right-hander has been a mainstay in the rotation since May, but the Rangers have grown concerned over the amount of innings the career reliever has thrown.

Feldman has tossed a career-high 87 2/3 innings. The plan is to use him anywhere between the fifth and seventh innings, and make a spot start if needed.

More OF for Bradley

Milton Bradley could return to right field as soon as Monday, and Ron Washington said he is again planning to get Bradley more time in the outfield.

Bradley hasn’t been in the outfield since injuring his quadriceps June 18, and has been the designated hitter since returning to the lineup.

Washington said he would ask Bradley how his legs feel after finishing the three-game series on the Metrodome turf.

Picky draft picks

General manager Jon Daniels said little progress has been made in negotiations with first-round draft pick Justin Smoak, though talks with the first baseman remain "amicable."

Daniels denied a Baseball Prospectus report that suggested the Rangers had reached a deal with second-rounder Robbie Ross, a high school left-hander from Kentucky. The Rangers have learned they will need to offer him a seven-figure bonus to secure a deal.