Ruddy

Lugo

Lugo was pitching very well before hurting his back and going on the DL in June. Since returning, he has allowed 11 earned runs in 11 2/3 innings. Seth McClung is next in line for saves in Tampa Bay now, so it doesn’t look like Lugo will have any value over the rest of the season.

Because of the injury, Lugo was removed from a save opportunity in the ninth inning Tuesday.

Lugo entered a 6-4 game and pitched a scoreless eighth. He stayed in for the ninth after the Rays added two runs, but he was removed after striking out Orlando Hudson. Brian Meadows replaced him and finished the four-run game. If healthy, Lugo, who has allowed one run in his last 11 2/3 innings of work, should be the currently favorite for saves in the Tampa Bay bullpen. Shawn Camp is probably next in line.

He’s expected to come off the disabled list right after the All-Star break.

Lugo is expected to rejoin the Tampa Bay pen after the break. Edwin Jackson could be sent down to make room for him.

Awful timing from Lugo, who should have been in line for saves with Tyler Walker out. Julio’s little brother has a 3.83 ERA in 31 relief appearances this season. Brian Meadows was manager Joe Maddon’s choice to close tonight.

Make up your mind, Billy. The A’s should have simply kept Elizardo Ramirez on the roster in the first place. Lugo had an awfully ugly appearance in his A’s debut on Saturday, but it was still just one appearance. If he was worth adding to the roster on the first place, then it made sense to give him an opportunity.

Lugo will take the place of Joe Kennedy, lost on waivers to Arizona. The A’s acquired Lugo on waivers from the Rays on June 14 and in his limited action with the team, he was hit hard. Acting as the River Cats’ closer, Lugo has been lights out, giving up a mere five hits in 20 IP while chalking up a 3-0 mark with a 0.45 ERA and 10 saves.

Luge gave up seven runs in two-thirds of an inning June 17 in his only appearance with the A’s before being sent down the next day. We’re guessing his next appearance won’t come in a close game.

Lugo pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings in his lone appearance during his second stint with the A’s.