CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) _ Randy Wolf pitched like a man who wanted to leave no doubt he belongs in the big leagues.

Responding to speculation that he might start the season in the minors, Wolf pitched 5 2-3 brilliant innings Sunday as the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Texas Rangers 5-4.

``I never had any doubt,'' the 23-year-old left-hander said when asked if he should make the Phillies' roster.

``He showed some purpose,'' manager Terry Francona said.

Wolf came into his third spring start with a 7.88 ERA. He also had caught Francona's attention with statements that spring training stats don't matter, and that he was in Florida to get ready for the season.

He allowed one run and one hit with two walks and one strikeout and hit two batters.

``The last time I threw, I felt an element of panic. Not from me, from around,'' Wolf said. ``It was hard for me, because I knew I was fine and those things were going to happen in spring training.''

David Segui played his first game with the Rangers since joining the team in a three-team trade that sent Lee Stevens to Montreal. Segui, with his fourth team in five seasons, was 0-for-3.

``I had a feeling I'd get traded this spring,'' Segui said. ``I just didn't know where to. But nothing surprises me anymore. This isn't the first time I've been traded. I've learned not to get too comfortable.''

Texas starter Rick Helling allowed three runs and seven hits in five innings. He walked one, struck out three and lost for the second time in three decisions.

Wolf, who started 5-0 as a rookie last season, showed some pluck by having his best outing of the spring when the spotlight was focused on him. He walked the first batter, Royce Clayton, after starting the count 0-2 and hit Ruben Mateo with one out before settling down.

``He kind of showed his true colors,'' Francona said. ``He was challenged a little bit and responded.''

Notes: Phillies reliever Jeff Brantley continued to struggle in his bid to come back from another shoulder operation. He gave up his second leadoff homer _ this time to No. 8 hitter Jason McDonald _ and allowed three runs, three hits and two walks in one inning. Obviously agitated, Brantley questioned whether he's getting enough work. ``I understand this is spring training and other guys have to throw, but time off doesn't do me much good,'' said Brantley, who wants to pitch every other day. ``I need to push it. I need to stretch it out. I need to be out there and just throw, throw, throw.'' ... Rangers LHP Justin Thompson, coming off shoulder surgery, threw batting practice for the first time Sunday and had no problems. He'll throw again in two days.