Oakland pitcher out of hospital after brain op

Pitcher Brandon McCarthy has left hospital less than a week after he was hit in the head by a line drive and needed surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, the Oakland Athletics said. The 29-year-old McCarthy was hit on the right side of the head by a line drive struck by the Los Angeles Angels' Erick Aybar last Wednesday. On Thursday he had surgery to relieve pressure on his brain from an epidural hemorrhage. McCarthy issued a statement Tuesday thanking team medical personnel as well as the doctors at the hospital on behalf of himself and his wife, Amanda. "We also want to express our deep appreciation to our teammates, manager and coaching staff for their concern and encouragement during the uncertain times, and also want to thank all the A's fans who wished us well. It's times like these when you realize you have an extended family, and feel so fortunate." McCarthy has made 18 starts for Oakland this season, posting an 8-6 record with a 3.24 ERA.