A's feeling effects of 18-inning game

OAKLAND -- A's manager Bob Melvin left shortstop Jed Lowrie out of the lineup Sunday as the team continues to recharge the batteries following Thursday's 18-inning victory over the Yankees.

"He's played quite a few days in a row between short and third," Melvin said. "I knew at some point we'd have to give him a day off. It's still kind of the effects of that 18-inning game, where we're giving guys days off because those types of games do take a toll on you and the whole team, and afterward it's good to give certain guys days off."

Melvin said he wanted some regulars -- including third baseman Josh Donaldson -- to catch a breather before the team travels to Texas for a four-game series, which begins Monday. Oakland's next scheduled off-day is June 24.

"A long flight or tough trip, it's the second day a lot of times more than the first day [that affects the players]," said Melvin, who added that he's noticed a decreased energy level from his squad the past two days.