SAN FRANCISCO -- The A's shook up their rotation depth Monday, claiming right-hander Nick Tepesch off waivers from the Dodgers and designating lefty Eric Surkamp for assignment.
Tepesch, who has plenty of experience in the American League West as a former Texas Ranger, will report to Triple-A Nashville, A's manager Bob Melvin said.
"We've had some injuries to our starters over the course of the season, so we're always looking to add some depth," Melvin said. "Our front office is very good about that. At some point in time, I'm sure we'll see him, but to get a veteran arm like that who's had pretty good history at times, whether in the rotation or in the bullpen, it's always nice to add a guy like that."
Tepesch began the season in Texas' organization, compiling a 4.11 ERA in 11 starts at Triple-A Round Rock before being released June 4. He latched on with the Dodgers via a Minor League deal and went 3-0 with a 2.00 ERA at the Triple-A level, earning a promotion Friday when he allowed five runs in four innings in a loss at Pittsburgh. He was designated for assignment the next day.
The injury-riddled A's have already used an American League-high 11 starters this season, among them Surkamp, who struggled to the tune of an 0-5 record and 6.98 ERA in nine starts over four stints, tossing fewer than five innings in seven of them.
Tepesch has pitched into the sixth inning in 27 of his 40 big league starts, recording a 9-18 record and 4.68 ERA in 43 appearances overall. Melvin complimented his mix of pitches and said he's "pretty aware of what he can do, knowing what his strengths and weaknesses are.
"Kind of tough to think along with him a little bit," he continued, "and he's got some movement to his fastball."