With this year just about over, the A’s are trying to finish the year on a strong note. They won’t be able to do that, however, if they can’t manage to stay healthy. The A’s received another injury scare on Friday, when young ace Brett Anderson literally fell down during his delivery in the A’s-Rangers game. The A’s youngster, who signed a four-year extension earlier this season in April, has been on the disabled-list twice this season. The A’s feel that the youngster will be their ace for many years to come—as long as he manages to stay healthy, that is. This season Anderson has made just 12 starts, and has gone 3-5 with a 3.32 ERA in those starts.
While he seemed to injury his knee on the play, Anderson says that he expects to make his next start on the road in Yankee Stadium. He will, however, have to complete a bullpen session on Monday first before getting the green light.
In other A’s related news, Trevor Cahill improved to 14-5, and has really put together an impressive season—so impressive, it’s almost Cy Young worthy. Unfortunately for Cahill, however, he plays for the A’s. And as most of you know, the A’s aren’t exactly the most popular club out there. It’s definitely a shame that Cahill doesn’t get recognized for his impressive numbers this year.
The A’s are expected to meet with Eric Chavez, who plans to rejoin the team next week once they come back home to Oakland. The A’s Gold Glover hopes to play this season, but does not wish to be a distraction. Chavez, who has been limited over the past four or so seasons, has been out since May with two bulging disks in his neck. In 33 games this season, Chavez hit just .234/.276/.333 with one home run and 10 RBIs. The A’s front office plans to hold a meeting with Chavez, and will most likely discuss the slugger’s future for this season and next year. It’s pretty much certain that the A’s will not pick up Chavez’s $12.5 million option for next year.
A’s manager, Bob Geren, says he plans to stick with Jack Cust in the lineup since the slugger has hit .417 so far on this road-trip (5-for-12).
Other News (after the jump)