Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Rich Harden throws to the Anaheim Angels during the first inning at Angel Stadium in Anaheim, Calif., on Monday, June 21, 2004. Things are finally getting back to normal for Harden. Since the Victoria native returned from a month-long absence caused by a strained left oblique muscle, the Oakland Athletics have been very careful with their prized right-hander, steadily allowing him to build up his strength and his pitch count. (CP PICTURE ARCHIVE/AP/Chris Carlson)