
MESA, Ariz. –- Closer Sean Doolittle is dealing with a slight triceps strain in his throwing arm that has sidelined him the past few days.
A’s manager Bob Melvin said the lefty is improving, and that he'll throw off flat ground Sunday. If that goes well, he will probably throw off the mound Monday. Doolittle last appeared in a game exactly a week ago.
“If we don’t get any setbacks here, then he’ll be fine for the (start of the) season,” Melvin said.
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[STIGLICH: A's spring training Day 28: All-around rough day for Gray]
Doolittle’s status obviously merits monitoring, as the A’s are looking for his healthy return to the closer’s role to anchor a bullpen that was revamped with several offseason additions. He’s allowed two earned runs over three exhibition appearances (3.0 innings) so far.
In another injury development, outfielder Sam Fuld had an MRI after hurting his shoulder on a throw home from left field in Saturday’s game against the Cincinnati Reds. Melvin said Fuld would see a doctor Sunday and that the team hadn’t received the MRI results yet.
It’s untimely news for Fuld, who is enjoying a terrific spring as he fights for a 25-man roster spot in Oakland’s crowded outfield. Fuld is hitting .417 with one homer and six RBI in 10 games, to go with his usual stellar defense. He is out of options, so the A’s would have to send him through waivers -– where he could be claimed by another team –- before they could send him to the minors.
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“Hopefully it’s not something he’s out too long with,” Melvin said.