Rookie Adduci getting chance to contribute in Texas

ARLINGTON -- Jim Adduci, a left-handed hitter, made his third start in left field on Friday night with right-hander Dan Straily on the mound for the Athletics. David Murphy was at designated hitter, while switch-hitters Lance Berkman and Jurickson Profar were on the bench.

"I want to see what [Adduci] can do," manager Ron Washington said. "He's a healthy bat and we're facing a right-hander, so I want to give him a shot. He might be the lightning that we're looking for."

The chances of Berkman having a meaningful role down the stretch are fading. He was 0-for-6 in two games against the A's last week, his first action since going on the disabled list on July 7 with inflammation in his left hip. Berkman continues to take batting practice and is available off the bench, but hasn't been used since his two starts in Oakland.

"With all the time we've had off and where he is, there are healthier guys," Washington said.

Adduci went into Friday's game with three hits in 10 at-bats since being called up at the beginning of September. He made his Major League debut on Sept. 3 after 10 seasons and 889 games in the Minors. He earned the promotion after hitting .298 with 24 doubles, three triples, 16 home runs, 65 RBIs and 32 stolen bases in 127 games at Triple-A Round Rock. The Rangers signed him as a Minor League free agent this past offseason.

"Any way I can help the team -- in the lineup or in a switch -- I'm going to do what I can to help the team win," Adduci said. "I've gone through some experiences with different roles on different teams. That's a big key. It helps me prepare for each game. I've been on teams where I've come off the bench and teams where I've played every day."