Mark Kotsay Will Undergo Back Surgery

Mark Kotsay told MLB.com that he will undergo back surgery and is expected to miss eight to 12 weeks. Kotsay's absence presents a daunting challenge for the A's, whose outfield depth was already in question. Shifting over from right field to replace the aching 31-year-old in center will likely be Milton Bradley, with Nick Swisher moving from first base to right, creating an opening for Dan Johnson -- who struggled mightily in the early part of last season -- to reclaim a full-time spot in the infield. Shannon Stewart will start in left and Erubeil Durazo could push Dan Johnson for time at first. The Athletics also have OF Bobby Kielty on the shelf, out 3-6 weeks after arthroscopic knee surgery.
Source: MLB.com