SEATTLE (AP) -Justin Duchscherer’s return on Saturday night was only the start of the good news for the Oakland Athletics’ rotation.
The right-handed Duchscherer came off the disabled list on Saturday to start against the Seattle Mariners, his first action since being sidelined earlier this month with a strained right biceps. The A’s optioned left-hander Lenny DiNardo to Triple-A Sacramento to clear a roster spot for Duchscherer.
Aside from Duchscherer’s return, right-hander Rich Harden threw well in a 50-pitch simulated game Saturday. He had good velocity, according to manager Bob Geren.
Should Harden feel no soreness or discomfort Sunday, he will likely make the first of two rehab starts next Thursday.
“He did throw the ball well. The velocity was there,” Geren said. “It was a very positive day all the way around.”
Harden, 1-0 with an 0.82 ERA in two starts, went on the disabled list April 10, retroactive to April 3, with a strained muscle below his right shoulder blade. He first felt sore while throwing a side session after Oakland returned from a season-opening series in Japan. He was able to pitch five scoreless innings against Boston on April 2, but the pain persisted. An MRI then revealed the injury.
The 26-year-old Harden was limited to seven games for Oakland last season because of shoulder injuries.
Geren hopes Harden can get on his regular five-day cycle and be ready for a rehab assignment later this week.
“Everything is written in pencil,” he said of Harden’s plan.
DiNardo was 1-1 with an 10.57 ERA in four appearances, two out of the bullpen and two as a starter. He will continue to work as a starter with Sacramento.
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