Baseball

Ekstrom was cut loose by the A's Saturday after posting a 5.10 ERA, 1.73 WHIP and 27/13 K/BB ratio through 30 innings at the Triple-A level. He'll provide minor league depth.

Blanton was skipped over the weekend, but he hasn't lost his spot in the rotation, at least not yet. He holds a 5.87 ERA and 1.63 WHIP for the season but has, for the most part, pitched better of late.

Hanson struck out a season-high eight batters in an impressive showing against a fairly stout New York lineup. The right-hander yielded both runs in a shaky third inning but was otherwise sharp, yielding just five total hits and one walk while moving to 4-2. He has an improving 3.94 ERA and makes for a decent fantasy streamer next week in a matchup at home against the Mariners. Hanson, 26, owns a 3.64 career ERA.

Wilson had lost five of his last six decisions, though he was pitching no worse than he did when he opened the season 3-0. Now he's 5-5 with a 3.90 ERA. His 1.43 WHIP is still pretty unimpressive, but it's been coming down since April. Wilson has a favorable matchup at home against the Mariners next time out.

Trumbo was batting just .194 in June, which likely played a role in the decision to give him a little two-day break around Thursday's off day. Despite the little slump, Trumbo leads the Angels with 15 homers and 45 RBI this season.

Richardson was released by the Braves last year after testing positive for PEDs and was pitching for the independent Sugar Land Skeeters this year. The 29-year-old will serve as bullpen depth with Triple-A Salt Lake.

The 28-year-old right-hander was making a strong impression in the Angels' bullpen before the elbow soreness set in. He won't be ready to return until after the All-Star break.