Following the A's acquisition of Frank Thomas, this week's Toronto series took on a great deal of anticipation, for not only would be be treated to seeing former Athletics Marco Scutaro, Shannon Stewart and Matt Stairs return, but also, the Big Hurt would be set for some serious retaliation, getting back at the Jays, who cut him loose earlier this year, much to the benefit of the A's.
But, with Thomas sidelined with an inflamed right knee, bound for the disabled list, the series has turned into one of great pitching. Last night's 2-1 loss to the Jays, the first for the A's this year, saw Halladay and Harden matching each other frame for frame. Now, today, we see rookie Dana Eveland, with his 4-3 record and 2.90 ERA, take on Jesse Litch, an impressive 6-1 with a 3.57 ERA on this young campaign. Despite the day game and sunshine, this just might not be an offensive barn-burner, but the A's will take their victories however they can. Coming off a sweep of the Red Sox, the last thing the green and gold want to do is lose a series against the Jays to conclude the homestand.
And, as Salb reports (below), we'll have a new bat in the lineup to help. Mr. Eric Chavez will make his debut today, batting 4th. Frank who?
