A’s catcher goes out with a bang

‘ Bruce Maxwell is congratulated by third base coach Ron Washington after hitting a home run last September.PHOENIX — The A’s rotation is finally, officially set for the season.

The offense appears to be ready too.

Jharel Cotton pitched into the sixth inning and gave up just one run, and Bruce Maxwell hit a pair of home runs as the A’s posted 16 hits and routed the Milwaukee Brewers 11-1 Sunday at Maryvale Baseball Park.

Despite his big day, Maxwell was sent to Triple-A Nashville after the game. With Stephen Vogt and Josh Phegley as the top two catchers, there was no room on the roster for Maxwell, who is batting .282 in the spring.

“Great day to have to do that,” Melvin said sardonically, “but…