OAKLAND -– Nick Punto was scratched from the A’s lineup Friday, with recently promoted Andy Parrino replacing him at second base against the New York Yankees.
Manager Bob Melvin, speaking before the scratch was announced, said Punto has had some ailments he’s been playing through, without being specific about any injuries.
The A’s have gotten minimal offensive production from the second base spot this season, and now both of their primary options there are nursing injuries. Eric Sogard fouled a ball off his ankle in Anaheim and is still hobbling. Sogard was noticeably limping after Wednesday night’s game against the Angels.
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“We were lucky we were able to get him out on the field (Wednesday) night,” Melvin said of Sogard.
Parrino was called up Friday to take the roster spot of Alberto Callaspo, who will miss the Yankees series while on paternity leave. Melvin mentioned that Parrino, hitting .310 with three home runs and 29 RBI for Triple-A Sacramento, might draw a start at shortstop this weekend if Jed Lowrie needs a rest. But in light of the injuries at second, it’s possible the switch-hitting Parrino sees more time there against New York.
In other injury news, right fielder Josh Reddick (hyperextended right knee) did running drills for the first time since joinin the disabled list June 1. He also hit off a tee and hit soft toss and Melvin said Reddick came out of it well. He’ll be brought along gradually, and though Melvin didn’t know specifics, he suggested that Reddick could benefit from a brief minor league rehab assignment.
“I think to an extent it might do him some good just to see some live pitching, maybe not a real long one,” Melvin said. “He’s been out long enough that probably a game or two wouldn’t hurt him, but I don’t know yet.”
