SF Gate: Harden off DL, will pitch today

“Pitch Today, Gone Tomorrow”

“Someone has to pay the price
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh”

Rich Harden is to be activated from his sixth career stop on the disabled list and pitch today’s series finale against the Rangers. Harden, who’s coming off a shoulder strain, showed exceptional command in two minor-league rehab appearances.

Pitching coach Curt Young said Harden’s pitch limit will be 80.

Like every other time Harden has returned to duty, the A’s hope he’s here to stay. He was limited to nine starts in 2006 and seven last year. He made two starts this year (1-0, 0.82 ERA) before being shelved. Emotionally, the A’s are pulling for their teammate to stay healthy. Professionally, they know they’re usually successful when he is.

“It’s no secret if Rich is healthy and he’s out there, he makes us on the day he pitches one of the best teams in the league,” Young said. “When Rich starts and goes deep in the games, eight out of 10 we’re winning. He can dominate a game, and not too many pitchers have better stuff.”