MLB: A's Cahill working on his mechanics

PHOENIX (AP) - Last spring, right-hander Trevor Cahill was worried about whether he would even make the rotation for the Oakland Athletics.

With a spot sewn up this spring, he can concentrate more on mechanics, such as getting a greater command of his fastball and continuing to develop his curveball. He said his arm strength is up.

"It's all about results," he said. "I want to have another good season and pitch into October."

Cahill had hoped to be in the rotation on opening day last season, but instead was put on the disabled list with an injured left shoulder. He was sent to Triple-A Sacramento and started two games to make sure he was ready before being recalled on April 30.

The 22-year-old Cahill took off from there. He had a 7-2 record against AL West teams. He finished with an 18-10 record and 2.97 ERA.

A's manager Bob Geren said Cahill was "one of a few guys to make strides last season."

"When the season started, there was a big improvement needed," Geren said. "Later on, he used different tactics to get left-handed hitters out and learned how to pitch to the 2-3 hitters. He controlled the running game, and he showed that he's a great fielder. In regard to his pitching, he has a great release point. He still has very, very good room to improve and grow."

A native of Oceanside, Calif., Cahill likes to enter games with music from The Doors playing in the background. And when the music's over, he is relaxed.

"I can be serious, but you don't want to take it too seriously. Otherwise, you can psych yourself out," he said. "I try not to show too much emotion either way."

He'll leave all the emoting until after the game, with what he hopes will be another win.