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A's might need to call up a fresh arm to bolster bullpen

ANAHEIM -- The A's could look to promote a pitcher from Triple-A Nashville on Wednesday in advance of an evening matchup at Angel Stadium to bolster a depleted bullpen.

"There's potential for that," A's manager Bob Melvin acknowledged after Tuesday's 14-1 loss to the Angels.

The game, which included an Ike Davis pitching appearance in the eighth, saw 48 pitches from reliever R.J. Alvarez, who will likely be optioned in the event of a move. Right-handers Ryan Cook and Chris Bassitt lead a list of potential callup options.

Video: OAK@LAA: Davis comes in to pitch, retires the side

The A's are already down one reliever in Jesse Chavez, who is scheduled to start Thursday's finale in place of Jesse Hahn (blister). Placing Hahn on the 15-day disabled list and backdating the stint to his last appearance on Saturday was at least thought about, but Melvin said, "He'll probably still stay on the roster since he's getting better."

The rookie Alvarez was rocked for seven runs, six of them earned, in only one-plus inning, with five hits and three walks allowed. While the A's defense was shaky, so was he, unleashing two wild pitches that led to a run in the Angels' six-run sixth.

Video: OAK@LAA: Angels take commanding lead with six in 6th

"Stuff's good, it's just the command of it," said Melvin. "He was throwing a lot of pitches. We really did need two innings today. Couldn't get it out of him. Obviously the stuff's good. Just about getting it over the plate."

Jane Lee is a reporter for MLB.com. Read her blog, Major Lee-ague, and follow her on Twitter @JaneMLB.
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