Stephen Vogt called up to the Oakland A’s

The Oakland Athletics have called up catcher Stephen Vogt on Sunday from Triple-A Sacramento while optioning Fernando Rodriguez to make room. Vogt has been placed directly into the catching position for the final game in a series against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday.

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Hitters are currently in short supply for the A’s with both Brandon Moss and Josh Reddick out of the lineup with injuries (both of which are day to day). In addition, Nick Punto is also nursing a sore calf even though he remains playing. With only 10 healthy hitters, the decision to bring Vogt up was necessary.

A’s manager Bob Melvin expected to see him at some point throughout the season.

“It gives us a three catcher dynamic and Vogt can also play the outfield and he’s been swinging the bat well.”

Melvin also mentioned that Vogt was the best player to bring to the lineup in addition to his being left handed. No mention was made whether this will be along term move or if Vogt will return to Sacramento once the A’s lineup is healthy.

Vogt pulled an oblique muscle at the start of the season and missed a month of play while in Sacramento. Since his return he has been playing great. Since his return to the River Cats, Vogt was batting .364 with three home runs and 19 RBIs in 21 games this season. Last year, Vogt batted .252 with four home runs and 16 RBIs in 47 games with the A’s.

Rodriguez being lost from the bullpen, the A’s will be without an extra arm for a little while. However, reinforcements are expected in the coming weeks. Both Ryan Cook and Eric O’Flaherty are expected to return from injury in June.