"The A's began this season with optimism revolving around a trio of pitchers who seemed ready to create their own "Big Three" legacy.

However, that foundation on which the A's are building has shown cracks.

Trevor Cahill, Gio Gonzalez and Brett Anderson all have encountered obstacles of varying degrees in 2011.

Cahill, who won 18 games in 2010, has watched his season collapse after a 6-0 start.

Gonzalez made the A.L. All-Star team but has posted a 5.25 ERA in the second half.

Anderson, viewed by many as possessing the most upside of the three, has made just 32 starts since the start of the 2010 season because of elbow problems. He had reconstructive elbow surgery in July that could sideline him until 2013.

Clearly, the three have a long road to navigate before being grouped with Tim Hudson, Mark Mulder and Barry Zito, starting pitchers who paved the way to four straight A's playoff appearances from 2000-03.

"These guys have got to learn how to pitch all the way through the season," A's pitching coach Ron Romanick said. "I know guys are a little tired. They're really good for stretches, but the consistency (is the key).""