Struggling P Brad Mills to start for Athletics; two others demoted

The Athletics have promoted left-hander Brad Mills from Triple-A Nashville and tabbed him to start Friday night in Baltimore.

They have also optioned pitcher Arnold Leon to Triple-A Sacramento and designated fellow righty Taylor Thompson for assignment.

Mills hasn't exactly earned the nod. He has allowed 34 runs on 54 hits in his last 46 innings pitched, which covers seven starts. He is 4-11 with a 4.45 ERA on the year.