Oakland Athletics injury stricken hurlers Rich Harden, Andrew Bailey show recovery in workout
With one day before the regular season to start Oakland Athletics received, a pleasant report related to their injured pitchers. Andrew Bailey and Rich Harden who both were announced to pass the regular season on disabled list made some progress in the club’s
workout.
Bailey, who started tuning-up on Sunday, made another strong day tossing 30 from a considerable distance what manager Bob Geren stated as being more than 80 feet. The 27-year-old Bailey left the mound two weeks ago when he received a blow on his surgically
repaired elbow.
It was expected that Bailey would have to stay on disabled list throughout the regular season, but with his recovery, it seems he might come in the middle. The team, that did not have remarkable spring exhibition, wanted him to make quick recuperation.
“I’m sure that we would love to have him out there when he is ready,” Geren said. “The delicate part is to get him ready as soon as possible, but yet making sure that he’s passing each test along the road. But so far, so good.”
Geren has assembled Brian Fuentes and Grant Balfour to be prepared as substitutes for the player having a 1.47 ERA in last season with 25 saves. Acknowledging his position, the two-time All-Star stated that it is better to leave the bullpen than in the middle
of the season.
Harden, who also left the mound due to injury, practiced with full strength Tuesday where he tossed more than 25 pitches. Looking at his situation, Team officials have sidelined him for the opening day. However, Geren stated he will require more workouts
before getting into playing momentum.
"It went well," Geren said. "He was throwing at 65 to 75 percent velocity. The ball was coming out of his hand well."
Oakland who has lost four-straight games will host San Francisco Giants Wednesday, March 30, 2011. Athletics have scheduled left-handed pitcher Dallas Braden with a hope to end the spring session with a win.
It will be interesting to see how the Athletics manage to play with two of their pitchers injured.
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