A’s kickoff another series vs. Angels

The A’s kickoff a four game series against the Angels tonight, the last time we will see Anaheim this season.  It looks like Parker, Straily, Griffen, and (I imagine) Anderson will be the rotation for the series, going up against Haren, Williams, Santana, and Weaver – who looks to be returning for Thursday’s matinee game – respectively.  Let’s hope the A’s fare a bit better than last week’s terrible showing. 

The A’s made three call-ups today – Jemile Weeks, Daric Barton, and Jessie Chavez.  Weeks is a welcomed return even if Melvin has yet to commit to how or when he will be used.  Weeks also said that he used the demotion to work on his swing.  We’ll see how this goes, but I’m still more comfortable with Weeks vs. Pennington, even if the latter has been playing very well in September.  I trust that Melvin will find some more magic in pushing the right buttons at the right time.  Barton returns as a situational hitter and late game, defensive replacement.  I can’t imagine it goes much further than this plan.  Per CSN’s story, Chavez will be used sparingly from the bullpen, if at all. 

One last, quick update as Brandon McCarthy continues to make progress.  He walked a bit in the hospital today and may return home sooner rather than later.  Good luck Brandon!

With that said, let’s take care of the Angels tonight and over the next couple of days please!  Let’s go Oakland!  This won't be your player of the game ...