James

Simmons

Simmons gets some sink on his low-90s fastball and shows a plus slider, giving him middle-of-the-rotation potential. He’s capable of moving quickly through an A’s system lacking pitchers with upside.

Simmons, who was drafted 26th overall last year, has allowed two runs and posted a 15/2 K/BB ratio in 17 innings this season. He’s polished enough that he could step into Oakland’s rotation in the second half if needed.

Simmons, a 2007 first-round pick, hadn’t pitched since May 14 because of what the A’s called a dead arm.

He’ll be examined further by team doctors. Anderson, the 26th overall pick in the 2007 draft, is one of Oakland’s top prospects.

Brett Anderon, Trevor Cahill and Vin Mazzaro all get to stick around. Cameron looked like a legitimate candidate for the bullpen before the Russ Springer and Michael Wuertz additions. He allowed two earned runs in 3 2/3 innings. Williams, one of the long shots for the rotations, gave up four runs in nine innings.