Travis Buck and his swing

The A's made the interesting announcement today that, in addition to activating Travis Buck from the Disabled List, they have optioned him to AAA Sacramento. The A's want to be sure not only that Buck is completely healthy, but also that he's ready to contribute. The Denorvis debate of last post will rage on for slightly longer, and Buck will be forced to prove himself again. This is an interesting move, but nonetheless a smart one. Buck had options remaining, which I imagine some of the other outfielders may not, so rather than force a choice that doesn't need to be made, the A's can rest easy knowing that Buck can work out those "3 or 4 things wrong with his swing" that plagued him early in the season.

The Outfield will thus remain Cust/Brown/Sweeney, with Denorfia and Davis filling in as needed. Make no mistake--Buck is the starting Right Fielder. He has too much talent and nothing to learn in AAA not to start, but the A's need to be sure he can contribute right now. Especially with the A's recent lack of offense against one of the worst pitching staffs in the league (Sorry, Scott,) Buck could be pulled up very soon. Think of these next few days as glorified rehab starts for Buck, who will be called up as soon as the A's are sure he's once again ready to be the Buck we need him to be.

In the meantime, Kurt Suzuki will stay the leadoff hitter. He remains there because of his above average On Base Percentage and not-terrible-legs. Buck will assume the leadoff spot when he returns, due to his better legs and proven ability (though Suzuki is doing well offensively, his minor-league numbers never suggested he'd be this good, so the jury is still out.) Buck could be back within a couple days, or a few weeks depending on how long it takes to get his swing back, but the message is clear--make it quick Buck, we miss your presence in the field and the plate.