6:40 pm: To make room for Bowden on their 40-man roster, the Athletics have designated Connor Thomas for assignment. In two appearances for Atlanta this year, Thomas gave up 15 runs in 6 1/3 innings. 4:40 pm: The Athletics have selected left-hander Ben Bowden from Triple-A. Although the Athletics cut Bowden last November, the two sides quickly agreed on a new minor league contract. He will head back to Triple-A, while Bowden will give the A’s a fresh new arm for their bullpen.