A.L. West.(BASEBALL)

LOS ANGELES ANGELS

After a recent home run binge in the minors, 3B Dallas McPherson was recalled to boost a sagging Angels offense. He has been working on his swing in an attempt to shorten his path to the ball and overcome a tendency to expand his strike zone. With 1B Casey Kotchman (viral condition) on the D.L., McPherson also will play some first base.... Juan Rivera had been the team's primary DH but will play some center field with Darn Erstad (foot) out. Rivera has a strong arm but often gets bad reads and takes awkward routes to the ball. TSNUMBER: .263--The team's batting average at the start of the week with runners in scoring position. That's a key figure for any club, but it's critical for the Angels because they lack power throughout the lineup. An inability to deliver with runners in scoring position puts pressure on the pitching staff, specifically the rotation. Starters have been allowed little margin for error and in many cases are trying to be too fine with their pitches.--Mike Scarr

OAKLAND ATHLETICS

RHP Justin Ouchscherer (elbow tendinitis) was placed on the D.L., which is a significant blow to an already decimated bullpen. Duchscherer filled in at closer when RHP Huston Sheet was unavailable. RHP Kiko Calero, a slider specialist who has battled elbow problems the past two years, now takes on a larger role in the bullpen.... DH Frank Thomas' patience at the plate has improved steadily, which has led to more walks and favorable counts, but his health remains an issue. He strained his fight quadriceps last week in Toronto.... RHP Rich Harden (back) has started a throwing program and likely will be ready for a rehab stint in a week or two. TSNUMBER: .327--The A's on-base percentage, which ranks 22nd in the majors. That's a concern for a team that places such a high value on that statistic. The hitters haven't lacked patience; Oakland ranks fifth in walks. Rather, a surprisingly low batting average--.243--has dragged down the OBP.--Mychael Urban