Joe Blanton pitched well in Wednesday's start against the Rangers, holding them scoreless over five innings. Blanton allowed only one hit and struck out five. It's a remarkable improvement over his previous two Cactus League appearances in which he allowed nine runs in 5 2/3 innings. Blanton is still fighting for a spot at the back of the Angels' rotation but his chances aren't great. The Angels could still trade or release him by the end of spring training.