OAKLAND -- The A's announced Tuesday that they've recalled outfielder Mark Canha from Triple-A Nashville. Outfielder Jaff Decker was designated for assignment.
Decker had been scuffling at the plate of late, going just 4-for-35 (.114) over his last 12 games, after hitting .400 in his first five games upon his April 15 promotion -- the same day Canha was sent to Nashville.
Canha pinch-hit for Matt Joyce in the eighth inning of Tuesday's 7-3 loss to the Angels and popped out.
Canha had only two hits in his first 19 at-bats after being named to the Opening Day roster, and he never found his groove during a stretch of inconsistent playing time. Sensing that Canha, who missed most of last season recovering from hip surgery, needed everyday at-bats, the A's moved him to Nashville.
Canha left the Sounds with a meek .232 average, but he hit five home runs and collected 16 RBIs in 19 games. He also drew 10 walks for a .345 on-base percentage.
Canha arrived at the Coliseum in time for the A's middle matchup of a three-game series with the Angels.
Worth Noting
• A's catcher Josh Phegley, playing in extended Spring Training games this week, is expected to be activated from the concussion DL when eligible Thursday, making him available for Friday's series opener in Texas.
• Right-hander Daniel Mengden (foot surgery) worked 3 2/3 innings for Triple-A Nashville in his latest rehab start Monday, allowing two runs on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts. Melvin said his fastball was in the 91-95 mph range.
Mengden threw 63 pitches, meaning he could get up to around 80 in his next outing, which has yet to be announced.