Erick

Threets

Threets missed the entire 2011 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery but is expected to be healthy for spring training. He tossed 12 1/3 shutout innings with the White Sox in 2010.

Threets was released by the A’s earlier this month despite posting a promising 1.84 ERA in 44 innings of relief at the Triple-A level. The 30-year-old lefty could be given a try in the Los Angeles ‘pen at some point soon.

Threets asked for his release once it became apparent that he wasn’t going to be promoted despite a 1.84 ERA and a .226 opponents’ average at Triple-A Sacramento. He’ll be able to catch on elsewhere.

Though he’s put up some nice numbers in the minors, Threets hasn’t appeared in a major league game since 2010. He’ll surely begin 2013 at Triple-A Colorado Springs.

Threets, who gave up five runs in 2 1/3 innings during his first stint in the majors last month, pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings last night.

Threets has been a prospect for several years because of his rare velocity for a left-hander -- he used to be known to touch 100 mph on the guy -- but arm troubles and wildness have held him back. The 25-year-old had a 3.46 ERA and a 40/35 K/BB ratio in 54 2/3 innings for Fresno this season. He’s probably not ready to be much of an asset.

Threets held opponents to a .222 average against him this season for Triple-A Fresno. OF Nate Schierholtz, LHP Jonathan Sanchez, and catcher Eliezer Alfonzo are also expected to join the major league roster on Saturday.

Threets has fanned nine in 5 2/3 innings over his last four appearance. Overall, he has a 1.76 ERA despite seven walks in 15 1/3 innings. Improved command would make him a bullpen candidate next spring.

Threets is eligible to come off the disabled list May 4, and will probably start a rehab assignment next week in the hopes of making his return on that date.

Threets has five strikeouts in 2 2/3 scoreless innings to date. He’d be a big beneficiary if Jonathan Sanchez moves into the rotation, as the Giants could then justify carrying one more left-handed reliever. They could also get lucky and find a taker for Steve Kline’s contract in order to make room for Threets, who is out of options.