Jason

Windsor

Windsor went 0-1 with a 5.87 ERA in two starts for the A’s back in July. He’s expected to be used in middle relief this time.

Windsor, a 2004 third-round pick, was 2-2 with a 3.58 ERA, 52 H and 64/8 K/BB in 55 1/3 IP for Single-A Stockton. If the A’s continue to have pitching problems and eventually part with Barry Zito, it’s possible that Windsor could reach the majors in his first full pro season. He doesn’t have a lot of upside, but he might have a career at the bottom of the rotation.

Windsor game up the hit while striking out seven in six innings. The 2004 third-round pick out of Cal State Fullerton is 1-1 with a 3.18 ERA. He struggled after moving up to Double-A last year, amassing a 5.71 ERA in 11 starts, but there’s a good chance that he’ll be one of the Texas League’s better pitchers this year.

Windsor has a 40/5 K/BB ratio in 31 2/3 IP this season, but his ERA stands at 4.26. A terrific pitcher at Cal State Fullerton, Windson fell to the third round in last year’s draft because he lacks velocity. The A’s still think he might be a fourth or fifth starter.

Windsor, who is taking the rotation spot of Kirk Saarloos, will make his major league debut against the Orioles tonight. It’s likely that he’ll stay in the rotation at least until Rich Harden comes back. He probably won’t be a particularly valuable fantasy pitcher, but AL-only leaguers with a bench spot open could pick him up.

Windsor is 12-1 between Double-A and Triple-A this season. “He’s kind of got a Joe Blanton style,’' pitching coach Curt Young said. “Good fastball, changeup, uses his breaking ball enough. He’s been a winning pitcher.’' Windsor isn’t a potential ace, but he should become a solid mid-rotation guy in time.

Windsor’s own throwing error led to the two unearned runs. He gave up five hits, walked three and struck out three. He’ll face the Tigers this weekend in his second start.

That will keep the rest of the rotation intact. Windsor is a very risky play given the matchup, so you’ll want to keep him in reserve.

Windsor wasn’t able to throw his secondary pitches for strikes, so the Red Sox feasted on fastballs tonight. The 2004 third-round pick just doesn’t have the stuff to retire quality hitters when he’s not at his best. He might stick as a fifth starter, but he’s probably not going to be much more than that. He’s not worth using in AL-only leagues right now.

Windsor’s stint as the Athletics’ fifth starter lasted just two turns, as he went 0-1 with a 5.87 ERA and a 2.22 WHIP in starts against the Orioles and Red Sox. Kirk Saarloos will likely reclaim the spot and start Sunday against the Blue Jays.