Chacin’s Return Falls Short As Oakland Rocks Toronto
Posted August 23, 2006 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Gustavo Chacin’s return from the disabled list was a less-than-impressive one on Wednesday night.
Chacin got the nod to start against the Oakland Athletics and he didn’t look to be in game shape, giving up five runs in an inning as the A’s rocked the Jays 6-0.
The left-hander was activated from the disabled list before the game, making his first start since June 9 th when a strained elbow ligament pushed him to the sidelines.
He struggled with his control from the get go, throwing 38 pitches in the first innings alone and allowing a run-scoring double by Milton Bradley and a two-run shot by Frank Thomas.
“I just missed my spots and got hurt,” Chacin said. “It’s just my command.”
Despite the poor performance, Manager John Gibbons defended his player.
“He felt good,” said Gibbons. “It was good to see him out on the mound. He’s a big part of our team, it just wasn’t his night.”
“He threw some good fastballs, he popped a few good ones which is good to see. We know he can pitch, we’ve seen him pitch. As long as he’s healthy.”
While Chacin was struggling, Esteban Loaiza was razor sharp, throwing a complete-game four-hitter and retiring 15 straight batters between the third and eighth innings. He struck out seven and walked none.
“He (Loaiza) had everything working tonight,” said Gibbons. “He was outstanding.”
