Athletics’ reliever John Axford making progress with shoulder strain – The Mercury News

OAKLAND John Axford is getting closer to helping shoulder the burden of being a contributing member of the Athletics bullpen.

I just warmed up like I would going into a game, a general warm-up routine, and then faced two simulated batters, Axford said. Someone stood in the box to get that kind of feel. It feels really good. I was season-ready (when injured) so I was already built up strong, ready to go. A few weeks off throwing is not the biggest thing.

Next up for Axford will be facing live hitters during a Wednesday batting practice session, then off to a rehab assignment at a site to be determined.

Axfords versatility makes him a valuable commodity, one manager Bob Melvin missed Sunday given the use of relievers Daniel Coulombe, Liam Hendricks, Ryan Dull, Ryan Madson and finally Frankie Montas in the previous nights epic 6-5 comeback win over the Tigers.

On days like today, well probably have a couple of guys not available, and thats where Axford really is a swing guy for us, Melvin said. He can close if we need him to close. He sets up. On a day like this more than any other day, you really miss him because there will be at least a couple of guys that wont be available.

Shoulders have been an issue for Athletics pitchers this season, as Sean Doolittle, Kendall Graveman, Sonny Gray and Sean Manaea have all spent time on the disabled list with similar injuries.

We have talked a little bit. I think its good for guys to be able get to know what someone else is feeling or what they felt along the way, Axford said. When I talk to Sonny, obviously hes a starter so he throws a little bit more, but it helps understand where his pain is of where he feels certain things.

Hes ahead of my schedule. Maybe Ill be able to do the same thing for Doolittle when my time comes. It provides good notes for us.

Chad Pinder received his first start in right field against the Tigers after playing as a designated hitter and infield. He has been working in the outfield since spring training.

Hes kind of embracing the role of being that utility guy, Melvin said. Hes been working in the outfield and today just seemed like the day to do it. We want to keep our infield intact, especially with Sonny on the mound. Usually when hes pitching there are a lot of ground balls. We wanted to get a right-handed bat in there.

Josh Phegley, on the concussion disabled list, will go to extended spring training in Mesa, Arizona, where hell catch and play designated hitter.

Manaea will start for Class AAA Nashville Tuesday, throw approximately 70 pitches, and be followed by Chris Bassitt, who is recovering from Tommy John surgery.

We just wanted to make sure hed pitched in a game based on him not feeling great (in his last start) and we want him to get past it, Melvin said. My guess is he probably could have pitched here, but we want him to get his pitch count up to normal and be secure in his mind.

Melvin on signing his own bobblehead doll, which was distributed to fans Saturday night: Its odd. especially when you have to sign the bill of the hat. Its a small little area to have to sign and my motor skills arent probably that great.

More here:

Athletics' reliever John Axford making progress with shoulder strain - The Mercury News