Is the lack of a physical ranged attack a design decision?

I've been working on a ranged Rogue build, and it has, by and large, been effective and fun to play. The one big issue I've encountered is trying to proc Physical damage as a ranged character. I've been trying to use Tongue Lash, but since it doesn't target lock, and only hits exactly where your cursor is, it hasn't been very successful.

Is the lack of a ranged physical power a design decision (@Ryolnir )?

Any suggestions for how I should be proc'ing physical damage on ranged Rogue?