A's to recall Gossett to help fill rotation void

OAKLAND -- Right-hander Daniel Gossett will be recalled to start Wednesday against the Mariners as the first reinforcement for an injury-riddled A's rotation.
Gossett was a member of Oakland's Opening Day rotation, but he was optioned to Triple-A Nashville after posting an 11.05 ERA in two starts. He's since compiled a 1.63 ERA across 38 2/3 innings at Triple-A, racking up 42 strikeouts and going 4-0 in seven games (five starts).
"He's pitched really well," manager Bob Melvin said. "You look at his numbers overall, he's done a nice job, so he will get the ball."
Melvin wasn't ready to announce Thursday's starter, as the A's move forward without injured arms Andrew Triggs and Brett Anderson, but righty Kendall Graveman is favored to also be recalled from Nashville.
Triggs, who experienced numbness in his fingers during his Saturday start in Toronto, underwent an MRI last weekend that showed no structural damage. A right triceps strain is irritating his radial nerve, according to A's head trainer Nick Paparesta, which explains the numbing feeling.
Triggs will soon be reexamined by team orthopedist Will Workman, who has been kept busy this week. Workman was also scheduled to see Anderson on Tuesday to determine the severity of his left shoulder strain.
Additional pitching help could soon become available. Paul Blackburn, who has been on the disabled list with a right forearm strain all season, is pitching in extended spring training and could begin a Minor League rehab assignment as early as next week, per Paparesta.
Rehabbing reliever Liam Hendriks (right groin strain; tear in hip muscle) will join Blackburn for game action in Arizona this weekend. He threw his third bullpen session on Tuesday and is expected to face hitters in extended spring training on Friday.
Further behind is Ryan Buchter, who has been throwing long toss as he rehabs a strained left shoulder. Buchter could throw from flat ground late next week barring any setbacks.