Rangers catcher Robinson Chirinos proving he’s more than ready for playoff duty

Catcher Robinson Chirinos has left very little doubt exactly how much he wants to be on the Rangers’ postseason roster. His performance Wednesday night underline that fact. After homering and throwing out a runner at second, Chirinos hopes he’s proven that he’s completely healthy and ready to catch on an ever day basis. He started again Thursday.

“I don’t think I need to prove to anybody that I should be on the playoff roster,” Chirinos said. “The coaching staff and the front office they know what I can do when I have a chance to play.”

Chirinos’ relationship with the pitching staff, including Wednesday’s starter Yovani Gallardo, is another important element to his return. He’s confident he can handle the rigors of catching in an extended playoff run despite missing most of the past two months.

“I’m ready to do that,” he said. “It was awesome. I had a chance to get back on the field and help this team win and get closer to a playoff spot. I feel good. I’ve been telling you guys I feel good. I’ve been working a lot to get my body in shape.”

Chirinos continued looking sharp Thursday. He singled to center in his first at-bat.

This story was originally published October 1, 2015 at 8:16 PM with the headline "Rangers catcher Robinson Chirinos proving he’s more than ready for playoff duty."