Right-Hander Wuertz Back With The A’s

With all of the players on the D.L. during the 2010 season, I must say that it is quite refreshing to see someone come off that list.  On Monday, the A’s were able to reinstate right-hander Michael Wuertz to the team.  The news of Wuertzs’ return means that there will now be four lefties and three right-handed relievers ready to go.

With Dallas Braden on the DL, the A’s had to put Tyson Ross in his place, thus leaving another open spot for a right-hander.  With the comeback of Wuertz, unfortunately, it also means that Bobby Cramer, the left-handed reliever will be optioned down to the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats.

Wuertz was put on the DL due to a left hamstring strain, but says that he is fully healed and ready to play.  He told reporters on Monday’s series opener against the Angels, “I’m just ready to get back out there, back to where I left off opening day,”  He did get his chance to get out there on the mound in Monday’s game during the seventh inning where he threw a scoreless inning with two strikeouts.

Before he went on the DL he was able to play in the season opener against the Mariners, but soon after injured his hamstring during a pregame workout.

During his rehab he was able to get some play in with The River Cats.  He was able to get a 1-2-3 inning in last Saturday game before he was removed from the A’s DL.  His return is a happy one for A’s manager Bob Geren who said of Wuertz, “He was one of the best setup men in the league. We’d like to get him back to that level again.”