Lambo has cancer surgery
Minor-league outfielder Andrew Lambo, who was on the A’s Opening Night roster, underwent surgery for testicular cancer, the team said Tuesday. Lambo, 27, was diagnosed by
Dr. Sam Chang of the Vanderbilt University Urology Clinic, who performed the surgery Friday.
The A’s said they’ll provide medical updates on Lambo when they are relevant to his playing status. He’s on Triple-A Nashville’s disabled list.
“He’s a pretty gregarious guy and fits in well in the clubhouse,” manager Bob Melvin said. “At some point in time, we figured we’d see him this year, but right now, what he’s got going on is a lot more important. So we’re keeping our fingers crossed, and our thoughts and prayers are with him.”
Lambo played parts of three seasons with the Pirates before the A’s claimed him off waivers in November. He played one game with the A’s and was sent to Nashville, where he was hitting .255 with four homers and 30 RBIs in 56 games.
On Twitter, Lambo wrote, “Thank you everyone for the prayers and support. I’m truly blessed to have soo much love. I’m going to beat this and be back on the diamond.” Alcantara arrives: The A’s called up Arismendy Alcantara, who was 26-for-26 in stolenbase attempts in Triple-A, 21 with Iowa and five with Nashville.
Alcantara, acquired June 9 in the trade that sent Chris Coghlan to the Cubs, played shortstop, second base and center field in 10 games for Nashville after appearing in 53 games for Iowa. The switch-hitter was batting .248 with six homers and 24 RBIs.
“We’ve been bogged down a little bit as far as stolen bases and haven’t been as good as we were earlier in the season,” Melvin said. “It does add another dynamic to a club that’s probably lacking maybe some athleticism and some speed at this point.”
Alcantara is small (5-foot-10, 172 pounds) but hit 10 homers in 278 at-bats for the 2014 Cubs and said of his recall, “It’s another opportunity I have to enjoy the Show.”
Briefly: Sean Manaea (forearm strain) will make a rehab start for Class A Stockton on Friday. His ensuing start could come with the A’s . ... To make room for Alcantara, left-handed reliever
Daniel Coulombe was optioned to Nashville.