Bynum, Flores savoring pennant race

OAKLAND -- Rookies like infielder Freddie Bynum and left-hander Ron Flores don't expect to see much action the rest of the way, but they wouldn't want to be anywhere else.

Bynum and Flores are both eligible for the playoffs, should the A's get that far. Bynum was recalled from Triple-A Sacramento on Aug. 29 and Flores is in his third stint with the team.

Both are also realistic and view this month as an experience.

"It feels great just to have the experience of sitting back and watching these guys do their work," said Bynum, who has appeared in five games. "I've learned a lot about how they go about business. It's awesome being part of a pennant race. It's the first time I've been through something like this and it's fun to see what it is like."

Flores has appeared in eight games this year, making his Major League debut on June 17 and throwing a scoreless inning against the Philadelphia Phillies. He's made two brief appearances since his latest recall on Sept. 9.

"First and foremost, it's awesome to be part of a pennant race," Flores said. "I can also look forward to next year. I hope I can put together a couple of good outings here and have that going for me next year. It's hard to stay focused this year knowing that next year could be my year. I hope to go to camp with a shot to make the team."