The A’s optioned starting pitcher Jharel Cotton to Triple-A Nashville on Thursday.
It’s a sign that Sean Manaea is ready to come off the disabled list and rejoin the rotation, but also an acknowledgement of Cotton’s bumpy start to his season. The rookie is 3-4 with a 5.68 ERA over seven starts, allowing a .282 opponents’ batting average that includes a .364 clip with runners in scoring position.
He’s alternated between good and bad outings and most recently gave up a career-high seven runs, including three homers, Tuesday night against the Angels.
Manaea, who’s been sidelined since leaving an April 26 start with shoulder tightness, made a rehab start for Nashville on Tuesday night, throwing four innings and allowing one earned run.