Axford (shoulder) logged one scoreless inning of relief for Triple-A Nashville on Saturday, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. He threw 12 pitches (eight strikes) and struck out one batter.
Axford didn't allow a hit or a walk, according to John Hickey of the East Bay Times. He may return in the coming days to reclaim a high-leverage role in the Athletics' bullpen, and with Santiago Casilla blowing his second save chance of the season Friday, perhaps Axford will earn the occasional closing opportunity. AL-only closer seekers could take a low-cost chance on him.