A’s Expect Grant Balfour to Return Thursday
By Editorial Staff
Athletics’ setup man Grant Balfour is nearing his return to the club. Barring any setbacks, the right hander is expected to be activated Thursday.
Balfour was placed on the disabled list last week but hasn’t pitched since June 21st, allowing him to rejoin the club Thursday if all goes well.
The right hander threw a successful bullpen Sunday and is set to join the A’s Triple-A squad Tuesday for a rehab appearance. If Balfour continues to show improvement, Oakland will then activate him Thursday when they kick off their series in Arlington against the Rangers.
"“I want to be ready now,” Balfour said. “You don’t want to miss any games, but knowing how big of a series that is, knowing they’re in front of us, it’d be nice to help take as many games as we can.”"
Before the injury, Balfour was exceptional this season as the team’s 8th inning arm. Over his 32.2 innings pitched in 2011, the 33 year old has held an ERA of 2.48 to go along with his impressive 1.16 WHIP. Balfour’s been able to strike out 9.6 per nine and has held opposing hitters to a .198 batting average.
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