Cubs’ Takahashi hit hard in loss

SURPRISE, Ariz. – Cubs starter Hisanori Takahashi struggled in his three-inning stint Wednesday, allowing three runs on five hits and two walks in a 3-2 spring training loss to the Texas Rangers.

Takahashi, who signed a minor league contract with the Cubs in hopes of a spot in the bullpen, struck out four.

Lance Berkman hit his first home run of the spring for the Rangers.

Mitch Moreland had a run-scoring single and Ian Kinsler drove in the other run with a sacrifice fly for the Rangers, who have won three of four.

Texas starter Robbie Ross, a candidate for the fifth spot in the rotation, allowed one run on four hits with a walk and a strikeout. Alexi Ogando, the Rangers’ projected fourth starter, went three innings and gave up a run on two hits and two walks. He struck out six.