Harden to miss start because of a blister

BALTIMORE, April 5 (UPI) -- Oakland right-hander Rich Harden will miss his scheduled start Wednesday at Baltimore because of a blister on the middle finger of his pitching hand.

"It's frustrating," Harden said. "I understand why they're holding me back, and it's the right thing to do, but I just feel so great right now, it's hard knowing I can't get out there and let it fly right now."

The team indicated on its Web site that Harden will be replaced by No. 5 starter Kirk Saarloos, and won't pitch until Sunday at Tampa Bay.