Spring Game Thread #9: A’s at Cubs

The Oakland A’s are back in action for their ninth Cactus League game of 2021 spring training, and there is only one story line we need to talk about here.

Jed Lowrie is playing.

The A’s signed Lowrie as a minor league free agent and non-roster invitee, and the professional hitter is looking to bounce back after missing the last two seasons to injury. If the former All-Star can re-prove himself this spring, it could mean a third stint in Oakland, the only place he’s ever stayed healthy in his career. And he’d be a nice fit on the current roster, especially if he can still play second base, as he’s doing today.

But wait, there’s more! Lowrie isn’t the only beloved second baseman in this game. Lining up for the Chicago Cubs is Eric Sogard, who’s also a non-roster invitee as he looks to bring nerdpower to the Windy City. It doesn’t get more peak spring training than this epic 2B matchup.

And as if that wasn’t enough, the Cubs also have Nick Martini.

First pitch is (was) 12:05 p.m. PT. You can listen to the radio broadcast for free online at A’s Cast.

A’s lineup (away)

1. CF Mark Canha (R)
2. 2B Jed Lowrie (S)
3. 1B Matt Olson (L)
4. 3B Matt Chapman (R)
5. DH Mitch Moreland (L)
6. LF Chad Pinder (R)
7. SS Elvis Andrus (R)
8. RF Skye Bolt (S)
9. C Carlos Perez (R)

• LHP Cole Irvin

Bolt joins Lowrie in making his first start of the spring, after a brief shoulder setback. Lots of MLB stars in today’s lineup.

Cubs lineup (home)

1. CF Ian Happ (S)
2. C Wilson Contreras (R)
3. LF Joc Pederson (L)
4. RF Jayson Heyward (L)
5. 3B David Bote (R)
6. 2B Eric Sogard (L)
7. SS Ildemaro Vargas (S)
8. DH Nick Martini (L)
9. 1B Matt Duffy (R)

• RHP Trevor Williams

Let’s go Oakland!