Joey Devine was knocked around in a relief appearance Thursday, allowing four runs on one hit and three walks over just 1/3 of an inning in a loss to the Dodgers. Devine has been mentioned as a possible closer candidate by the coaching staff, but he'd have to be considered a longshot candidate, so he can't afford outings like this. The injury-prone reliever will likely be utilized in a setup role in 2012.

Athletics and RHP Joey Devine avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year contract. The oft-injured Devine finally made his way back to the majors last season, posting a 3.52 ERA and 20/11 K/BB ratio over 23 innings. He's one of a few options (Fautino De Los Santos and Grant Balfour, included) who could close games for the A's this season.

Athletics activated RHP Joey Devine from the 60-day disabled list. Devine was diagnosed with a right rhomboid strain near the end of the 2011 regular season and did not return. He had a 3.52 ERA in 23 innings before the injury.

Athletics recalled RHP Joey Devine from Triple-A Sacramento; placed him on the 60-day disabled list. Devine has been diagnosed with a right rhomboid strain and remains out indefinitely. The move clears a roster spot for Kila Ka'aihue, who was acquired via trade on Tuesday.

Joey Devine has dealt with back issues off and on for the past month or two. It's surely the reason why he wasn't promoted when rosters expanded given that he held a 3.52 ERA and 1.26 WHIP in 23 innings of relief this season for the A's. Devine is constantly battling injuries, but at least it's not his arm this time.

Athletics optioned RHP Joey Devine to Triple-A Sacramento. Devine, 27, has a decent 3.52 ERA and 1.26 WHIP in 23 innings of relief this season for Oakland. He should return to the major leagues within a few weeks.

Joey Devine returned to action on Wednesday July 20.

Joey Devine (back) said he felt fine during a throwing session Saturday. Devine left Friday's game due to back spams. He's not sure if he'll be able to pitch during Saturday's doubleheader, as he needs to check with the A's trainer first, but, regardless, it sounds like he'll be back shortly.

Joey Devine reported improvement with his back Saturday. Devine had to leave Friday's contest with back spasms. He'll throw in the bullpen to see how he feels, but he thinks he could be available for the second game of Saturday's doubleheader.

Joey Devine is day-to-day with back spasms after coming out of Friday's game. At least it wasn't am arm injury. Devine still might be DL bound with the A's playing a doubleheader Saturday.