The A’s stumbled to an 0-2 start in their early spring campaign, falling to the Cleveland Guardians. It’s a rough beginning, but let’s not forget-spring stats don’t hold much weight in the grand scheme.
Taking the mound at home for the first time, the A’s leaned on their ace, Luis Severino. The right-hander looked sharp, delivering two scoreless innings on 34 pitches.
This is exactly the kind of start the A’s need from Severino, especially as he prepares to join Team Dominican Republic for the World Baseball Classic. His performance there will be crucial, offering a more competitive test than typical spring games.
Once Severino exited, Cleveland capitalized on Joel Kuhnel, tagging him for four earned runs before Kenya Huggins could halt the damage. Unfortunately for the A’s, their offense couldn’t find its rhythm against Cleveland’s bullpen, managing just four hits all day.
The A’s did have an early opportunity, loading the bases with two outs in the second inning. However, Denzel Clarke grounded out, squandering the chance. Clarke, in his spring debut, went 0-for-2, looking to find his footing.
Cleveland added another run in the fifth with some small-ball tactics against Luis Morales. Morales, who’s eyeing a spot in the rotation, raises questions about his durability over a full season. The A’s might consider limiting his innings early to manage his workload.
The A’s had one last shot in the sixth, thanks to hits from prospects Tommy White and Henry Bolte, but they couldn’t break through, ultimately falling in a shutout. Despite the loss, Severino’s performance was a bright spot, setting a positive tone for the months ahead.
Looking forward, the A’s head to face the San Francisco Giants next. Right-hander J.T.
Ginn will start, aiming to showcase his potential as a starter. Ginn, like Jack Perkins, is fighting for a role beyond long relief.
Tomorrow’s game is a chance for him to make a statement.
Joining Ginn on the mound will be prospects Gage Jump and Braden Nett, along with relievers Elvis Alvarado and Tyler Ferguson. Fans are eager to see Jump and Nett face big-league hitters.
In other notes, Nick Kurtz, leading off, went 0-for-3. While it’s early, his leadoff spot will be a topic of discussion. Reliever Michael Kelly shone, striking out all three batters he faced, strengthening his case as a potential closer.
Max Muncy, pinch-hitting, drew his first walk of spring, while Jeff McNeil notched his first hit as an Athletic. On the flip side, Jacob Wilson went 0-for-2, though he avoided strikeouts.
Carlos Cortes and Andy Ibanez each drew a walk, keeping their roster hopes alive. Tommy White impressed with two hits, showcasing his hitting prowess.
However, defensive errors from Jeff McNeil and Nick Kurtz marred the day. Better to iron out these kinks now than later.
As the A’s continue their spring journey, the focus remains on growth and preparation. Tomorrow’s matchup against the Giants offers another chance to refine and improve.