There seemed to be no conceivable way that Chris Bassitt would return to the mound this season. He had been struck in the face with a sharp line drive, eventually requiring surgery to repair facial fractures. It seemed likely that, with a month left in the season, he would miss the rest of the year with an eye towards being ready for 2022.
Bassitt has other ideas. He said that he is looking to return by the end of this year, getting back on the mound and trying to help the A’s postseason push.
All things considered, Chris Bassitt looks fantastic after his surgery. I’ll post video of the entire interview soon. Yes, he does want to pitch again this season. pic.twitter.com/hH3kBH91yu
— Steve Berman (@BASportsGuy) August 28, 2021
Chris Bassitt looking to return in 2021
Getting Bassitt back over the final weeks of the season could be a major boost for the A’s pitching staff. They have badly missed his presence, falling out of a postseason berth since he had been struck by that line drive. The A’s pitching staff had suddenly looked mortal.
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It is understandable that Bassitt would be a major loss from the rotation. He had established himself as the ace of the A’s staff, posting a 3.22 ERA and a 1.046 WHiP in 151 innings. He had struck out 154 batters while issuing 35 walks, holding opponents to an impressive .219/.277/.351 batting line while generating plenty of ground balls.
But there is also the psychological aspect of having Bassitt back on the mound. Seeing him back out there, attacking the opposition without fear and continuing to dominate would give the rest of the team a boost. It is not a surprise that, after seeing him in the dugout on Saturday, they were able to snap the Yankees’ 13 game winning streak.
Maybe that will be the boost the A’s need. Knowing that Bassitt is healthy is one thing; seeing him in person in the dugout and in the locker room is another. If he can get back on the mound this season, he could make a major difference just with his presence.
Chris Bassitt is hoping to return to the mound again this season. He could be the boost that the Oakland A’s desperately need.