Jason Hammel: (Personal) Returns Monday

Hammel (personal) returned from paternity leave Monday, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports.

Analysis:

Following the birth of his child over the weekend, Hammel will rejoin the Oakland rotation and take the ball Thursday against the Rangers. Hammel hasn't pitched as well as the Athletics had hoped when they acquired him July 4, as he's gone just 2-6 with a 4.52 ERA and 1.33 WHIP over 12 outings (11 starts). However, if he's able to deliver a strong showing Thursday and help the Athletics close in on clinching a playoff berth, he'll likely be able to generate some more goodwill.