The A's called up outfielder Aaron Cunningham on Friday, and he was in the lineup batting ninth and playing right.
Cunningham had spent only three games at Class AAA Sacramento after missing most of the season with a separated right shoulder incurred in a collision at home plate. He was 4-for-12 since coming off the River Cats' DL. One reason the A's recalled Cunningham is that Matt Holliday's right side stiffened up Wednesday after he'd felt a twinge during an at-bat earlier in the day. But the main reason, according to manager Bob Geren, is that the team needs better production from right field when Jack Cust is DHing.
Travis Buck was batting .200 and was not starting against left-handers.
Cunningham's arrival will translate to even less time for Buck. He was the A's right fielder two seasons ago but he was demoted last May when slumping and didn't return until September.
Geren said he thinks Buck is showing signs of turning things around and believes he's been swinging the bat better lately. Buck said he feels great and that the hits just aren't dropping.
TIGERS 14, A'S 1: The entire Oakland starting infield made errors, which translated into six unearned runs against rookie LHP Brett Anderson, who gave up a grand slam to Ryan Raburn in the first inning. It was Anderson's first appearance since May 4 because of blister trouble on his pitching hand. Brandon Inge hit a grand slam in the sixth off Dan Giese following the second lengthy rain delay of the night.
