Well, there was some good that came out of this game, then. Eric Chavez went a long way in proving that he can still be productive with the bat after three long injury-shortened years. Ben Sheets was fantastic for two innings, as he breezed through seven batters, allowing only one single. Then...well, he wasn't quite as effective in the third. Eight batters (and five runs) later, he was removed with a final line of 2.2 IP, 5 H, 5 ER, 0 BB, 1 K. Of course, it is Spring Training, and established veterans like Sheets can take some time and experiment with new pitches and strategies. Younger players fighting for a roster spot have to perform well, but because Sheets has a rotation spot sewed up, he can afford to try new things. Susan Slusser reports (via twitter) that Sheets was "throwing more changeups than usual, particularly in the third inning".
Andrew Bailey pitched excellently, scoring three strikeouts in one inning of work. We also saw pitching appearances from Cedric Bowers, Craig Breslow, blast from the past Lenny DiNardo, and Brad Kilby.
Outfielder Coco Crisp is out for a week with a left hamstring strain, and pitcher John Meloan will get his right elbow looked at later today for soreness after leaving yesterday's game, trainer in hand. The injuries are piling up for some, but until further notice, Eric Chavez is healthy and strong.
Tomorrow, the A's take on half of the split-squadded Milwaukee Brewers at Maryvale Park. First pitch is at 12:05 PM.
