So this is why the A’s spent so much time this winter adding depth to their roster.
The Athletics announced on their official team site that they have placed starting pitcher Dallas Braden on the 15-day disabled-list. The A’s lefty, who was 1-1 with a 3.00 ERA before landing on the DL, will miss his next start on Friday against the Mariners.
Oakland starters have played exceptionally well this season, despite receiving poor run support from a lineup that ranks 21st in batting average (.236) and 25th in on-base percentage (.300). A’s starters have compiled a 2.13 ERA through 104 innings. The A’s also lead the majors in overall ERA with a 2.56 team mark, and are currently 3rd in quality starts with 10.
Losing Braden, however, does take a bit out of Oakland’s rotation. The A’s now have a significant void to fill, but they do have plenty of leading candidates to help fill in for Braden.
Bobby Cramer and Tyson Ross are likely candidates to help out the A’s rotation while Braden is out. Cramer and Ross have both been effective in their limited use so far this season, and both pitchers could prove effective in the rotation as well.
The A’s also acquired left-handed pitcher David Purcey on Monday, who will take Braden’s spot on the 25-man roster according to the team’s official site. Oakland also announced that Rich Harden, who has been sidelined since February due to a lat muscle injury, was transferred to the 60-day disabled-list.