Athletics Face Dodgers in Spring Training Matchup

A's send prospect Jacob Lopez to the mound against Emmitt Sheehan and the Dodgers

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:54pm

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The Oakland Athletics are taking on the Los Angeles Dodgers in a spring training game, with the A's sending left-hander Jacob Lopez to the mound and the Dodgers countering with right-hander Emmitt Sheehan. Both teams are resting their regular starters, giving opportunities to backup players and prospects to get playing time before the regular season begins.

Why it matters

This spring training matchup provides a chance for the Athletics to evaluate their up-and-coming talent, including center fielder Denzel Clarke and first base prospects Leo De Vries, Henry Bolte, and Tommy White, who are all in the starting lineup. For the Dodgers, it's an opportunity to see if Emmitt Sheehan can stay healthy and earn a spot in their rotation.

The details

The Athletics are giving Jacob Lopez the start as they bring him along slowly this spring due to an elbow issue. The Dodgers are starting Emmitt Sheehan, who is expected to earn a rotation spot but has been limited to just two appearances so far in camp due to health concerns.

  • The game is scheduled for an 11:05 AM first pitch on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Jacob Lopez

A left-handed pitcher in the Athletics' organization who is getting the start as the team brings him along slowly this spring due to an elbow issue.

Emmitt Sheehan

A right-handed pitcher for the Dodgers who is expected to earn a spot in their starting rotation, though his health has been a concern so far in spring training.

Denzel Clarke

A center fielder in the Athletics' system who is getting the leadoff spot in the lineup, looking to improve his hitting.

Leo De Vries

A first base prospect in the Athletics' pipeline who is batting in the bottom third of the lineup.

Henry Bolte

Another first base prospect for the Athletics who is in the starting lineup today.

Tommy White

A first base prospect for the Athletics who is also getting a start in today's spring training game.

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What they’re saying

“Gotta get at bats if he wants to improve with the stick, right?”

— Mark Kotsay, Athletics Manager

What’s next

The Athletics will need to determine if Jacob Lopez is ready to be part of their starting rotation to begin the regular season, while the Dodgers will continue monitoring Emmitt Sheehan's health and performance as he competes for a spot in their rotation.

The takeaway

This spring training game provides valuable opportunities for the Athletics to evaluate their up-and-coming prospects, while the Dodgers look to solidify their rotation with Emmitt Sheehan's health being a key factor. Both teams are using this exhibition as a chance to get their players ready for the start of the 2026 regular season.