A’s Unleash Power Surge in Crushing 12-4 Victory Over Reds—What’s Fueling Their Remarkable Spring Run?

The A’s will look to make it two in a row tomorrow against the San Diego Padres. Right-hander Mason Barnett is scheduled to make his second spring training appearance. He is looking to improve after allowing two runs in two innings in his last outing. The Padres will counter with veteran right-hander Michael King, who will also be making his second preseason start.

Notes

Following the game, the A’s made several roster cuts. They optioned right-handed pitcher Eduarniel Nuñez to Triple-A Las Vegas and right-handed pitcher Henry Baez to Double-A Midland. Additionally, they sent left-handed pitchers Wei-En Lin and Domingo Robles, right-handed pitchers A.J Causey, JJ Goss, Kenya Huggins and Yunior Tur, catcher Shane McGuire and infielder Joey Meneses to their minor league camp. None of these moves are surprising, although it sucks for Meneses coming after he hit the grand slam. It would not be a shock to see him in Sacramento this year if he is doing well in Triple-A and the A’s need someone to fill in for Nick Kurtz and/or Brent Rooker if they get injured. Likewise, relievers Nuñez, Causey and Tur could be options to help the A’s bullpen this season.
In addition to the prospects mentioned above, Henry Bolte had a good day. He singled twice in three at-bats.
Kurtz is off to a slow start this spring with one hit in 15 at-bats. It is still early, so he has a long time remaining to get in a groove before the regular season starts.
Colby Thomas got two at-bats today off the bench. He has been dealing with inflammation in his right elbow, which is why he has not started a game during the first week of the Cactus League.