--3B Eric Chavez (right shoulder) told reporters he hopes to get into a game within a week. Chavez has been shut down for nearly two weeks after feeling discomfort in his surgically repaired shoulder while batting. He has yet to appear in the field in a game this spring, and his readiness for Opening Day is in doubt.
--RHP Justin Duchscherer (elbow) received a cortisone shot, but it is unlikely that the two-time All-Star will be ready to pitch on Opening Night. He told the San Francisco Chronicle that the pain is less since the shot, and he does not believe it will take long to get game-ready. Duchscherer is continuing his long-toss program but has not thrown off a mound. --1B Daric Barton got a start at first base on March 19, but his limited appearances this spring following his offseason hip surgery and then a strained quadriceps muscle have lessened his chances of making the roster -- along with the addition of Nomar Garciaparra. Manager Bob Geren told reporters that Barton remains in contention for a big-league job.
--RHP Joey Devine (elbow) threw off the mound on March 19 and is scheduled to do so again March 21. If he continues to progress, the A's co-closer could appear in a game within a few days. Devine has missed two weeks but had gotten in some game action already, so he should be ready to go to start the season, barring any setbacks.
--C Rob Bowen was released, leaving 2004 first-round pick Landon Powell as the expected backup catcher to Kurt Suzuki. Bowen, run through waivers the previous week, had been out of action because of a dislocated thumb. Bowen appeared in 37 games last year and batted .176. Powell is expected to get more time behind the plate than Bowen did.
--OF Ben Copeland, a Rule 5 draftee, will miss several days after bruising his sternum while running into the wall making a catch on March 17. Copeland, selected when the Giants left him unprotected in December, appears to be a longshot to make the Oakland roster this spring. The starting outfield (Matt Holliday in left, Ryan Sweeney in center and Travis Buck/Jack Cust in right) is set, and Rajai Davis is a near lock for the final spot.
BY THE NUMBERS: 156 -- The number of games shortstop Orlando Cabrera has averaged each of the last eight seasons, including four seasons with a minimum of 161. Bobby Crosby averaged 113 games per season in his five years as Oakland's shortstop.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "This team is on the verge of being a really, really good team if those young kids can turn it on. Pitching wins in this game. It's easier to win 2-1 than 10-9 every night. If those young kids can develop fast, we're going to surprise some people." -- Jason Giambi, discussing prospects Brett Anderson, Trevor Cahill and Vin Mazzaro with the Associated Press.
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