A’s McCarthy to return Friday


The Athletics are getting Opening Day starter Brandon McCarthy back from the disabled list for Friday’s game against the White Sox in Chicago.

McCarthy has a 2.54 ERA this season but has pitched only 78 innings.

He worked six scoreless innings in his most recent rehab start at Triple-A Sacramento, threw a 25-pitch bullpen session on Wednesday and is on track to start Friday.

McCarthy has been out since June 20 with a right shoulder strain, his second DL stint of the season.

McCarthy replaces A.J. Griffin in the rotation. Griffin was placed on the disabled list with shoulder problems.