SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Oakland Athletics have designated for assignment infielder Daric Barton and left-handed pitcher Travis Blackley.
Barton was the longest-tenured player on the A’s. The AL West champions needed the roster space Friday after claiming right-hander Danny Otero off waivers from the New York Yankees and righty Josh Stinson off waivers from Milwaukee.
A’s manager Bob Melvin said the team would welcome back Barton and Blackley in the big leagues later this season if they aren’t claimed and go to Triple-A.
Otero was optioned to Triple-A Sacramento and Stinson was optioned to Double-A Midland. The A’s also optioned left-hander Jordan Norberto to Sacramento.
Melvin said “it’s very likely” that shortstop Hiroyuki Nakajima will begin the season on the 15-day disabled list after he strained his left hamstring Tuesday.
