ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) - Eric Chavez was scratched from his return to the field for the Oakland Athletics on Thursday because of a strained right forearm.
Chavez had been in the starting lineup for the first time since last Friday. But Chavez didn't bat in the first inning or take the field.Chavez played in only three of the previous 12 games because of a sore right elbow. He was initially listed in the lineup against Texas at first base in place of Jason Giambi, who was out because both of his hamstrings are sore.
About 30 minutes before the game, a lineup change was announced with Chavez instead at third base, his normal position where he has won six Gold Gloves, and Bobby Crosby at first.
Before the As and Rangers were rained out Wednesday night, Chavez was listed as the starting first baseman. Chavez hasn't played first base since 2001.
After Chavez didn't bat in the first Thursday, Crosby went to third base in the bottom of the inning and Landon Powell took over at first.
Oakland infielders Nomar Garciaparra and Mark Ellis were put on the disabled list Wednesday after both sustained calf injuries Tuesday night.
