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Spring Game Thread #8: A's at Chicago White Sox

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It's a sun-shiny day for A's fans, as Sonny Gray makes his first Cactus League start of the 2016 campaign!

Oakland's ace will be opposed by Chicago White Sox starter Jacob Turner, at 12:05 PM PT in Glendale, Arizona. You can listen to today's radio broadcast at MLB.com, or simply make your way to athletics.com -- and stream the game for free.

WATCH THE A's GAME LIVE: via Chicago White Sox two-camera video-cast!

Despite yesterday's loss, there was one particular Athletic who impressed on the mound:

The 24-year-old south paw from Oklahoma, appears to be a promising pitcher for the Athletics -- who was deemed the 10th best prospect in Oakland's farm system, according to MLB.com. Even though Overton has struggled to regain his velocity (post Tommy John surgery), he's endured continuous success in 2015 -- climbing the organizational ladder in High-A Stockton and Double-A Midland; to the tune of a career 3.09 ERA with a phenomenal 159:31 strikeout-to-walk ratio in 163 innings.

At some point in the next season or two, Overton looks to play a prominent role in Oakland's starting rotation. For the lefty's complete journey to the show, check out editor-and-chief Melissa Lockard's article entitled: Oakland A's 2016 Top-50: Dillon Overton at scout.com for more details.

Starting lineups for today's game:


Hot off the press:

Barreto, just 20, has A's camp buzzing | Jane Lee | MLB.com

Oakland's top-prospect is only 20-years-old; yet his poise, confidence and production at the plate has warranted himself a comparison to Detroit Tigers first-baseman and 2012 Triple Crown winner Miguel Cabrera. In seven at-bats this spring, Barreto has showcased his power by launching two home runs -- one coming off San Diego starter Nick Vincent . The coaching staff and players have praised Barreto for his strong work-ethic, along with his determination to become the best slugger he can be.

Alvarez keeps progressing towards return | Jane Lee | MLB.com

Right-handed pitcher Henderson Alvarez is making positive strides since undergoing shoulder surgery in July. The 25-year-old is expected to throw another bullpen session on Saturday; and hopes to pitch in minor league games by April -- before joining the A's rotation in May. At this point in his recovery, Alvarez is strictly throwing fastballs without any discomfort -- however, it's all about building back his arm strength for the time being.

A's bullpen catcher Phil Pohl has Cooperstown roots, lots of fans | Susan Slusser | San Francisco Chronicle

After being released by the Colorado Rockies organization in 2015, former A's catching prospect Phil Pohl will make it to the big leagues in 2016 -- as Oakland's primary bullpen backstop. Pohl is praised for his intelligence, passion, desire for the game, and willingness to help out the squad.

The A's Insider Podcast with Joe Stiglich: Episode 1 with Mark Kotsay | Joe Stiglich | CSN California

Stiglich talks with A's new bench coach Mark Kotsay about a variety of topics including: day-to-day responsibilities, reminiscing on the 2006 playoff team -- including the inside-the-park home run, and what's it's like to work with the young players.

In Other News: