A's Brace for Rooker Injury, Ginn Set for First Start

Oakland Athletics navigate roster moves amid Brent Rooker's oblique strain and the debut of new starting pitcher J.T. Ginn

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:33am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game or action, with the players and field broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant green and gold colors representing the Oakland Athletics' uniform.The A's navigate roster changes and injury concerns, with their young talent stepping up to the plate.Oakland Today

The Oakland Athletics are facing a challenging situation as they await updates on slugger Brent Rooker's right oblique injury. Rooker, who had a breakout game against the Astros, could be sidelined for an extended period due to the nature of oblique strains. The team is exploring options to fill his roster spot, including calling up infielder Zack Gelof from the minors or shifting veteran Jeff McNeil to designated hitter duties. Meanwhile, the A's have turned to prospect J.T. Ginn to make his first start of the season, replacing the struggling Luis Morales in the rotation. Ginn's debut will be followed by the recall of Jack Perkins from Triple-A to provide long relief support.

Why it matters

Rooker's injury is a significant blow to the A's, who have been relying on his power bat to anchor their lineup. The team's ability to navigate this setback and find productive replacements will be crucial as they aim to remain competitive in the AL West. Ginn's promotion also represents an opportunity for the organization to evaluate its young pitching talent and determine if he can solidify a spot in the rotation moving forward.

The details

Brent Rooker has been placed on the injured list due to a right oblique strain suffered in a recent game. Oblique injuries often require extended recovery times, potentially sidelining Rooker for over a month. To fill his roster spot, the A's are considering calling up infielder Zack Gelof from the minors, where he has been tearing it up with a .366 batting average and .519 on-base percentage. The team could also shift veteran Jeff McNeil to designated hitter duties or provide more playing time to outfielders Carlos Cortes and Lawrence Butler. On the pitching front, the A's have turned to prospect J.T. Ginn to make his first start of the season, replacing the struggling Luis Morales. Ginn has made three relief appearances so far and will now get the opportunity to showcase his skills as a starter. To provide long relief support, the A's have recalled Jack Perkins from Triple-A Las Vegas, where his numbers this season have been somewhat concerning with seven walks issued in 7 2/3 innings.

  • Brent Rooker was placed on the injured list on April 10, 2026 due to a right oblique strain.
  • J.T. Ginn will make his first start of the season for the A's on April 12, 2026 against the Mets.
  • Jack Perkins has been recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas and is expected to join the A's bullpen on April 11, 2026.

The players

Brent Rooker

The Athletics' slugger who has been placed on the injured list due to a right oblique strain.

Zack Gelof

An infielder in the A's minor league system who is a potential replacement for Rooker on the active roster.

Jeff McNeil

A 34-year-old second baseman for the A's who could see increased designated hitter duties in Rooker's absence.

J.T. Ginn

A prospect who has been promoted to the A's starting rotation, making his first start of the season against the Mets.

Jack Perkins

A relief pitcher who has been recalled from Triple-A Las Vegas to provide long relief support for the A's.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The A's are navigating a tricky situation with Brent Rooker's injury, but the team's ability to adapt and find solutions will be crucial as they continue their campaign. The promotion of J.T. Ginn and the recall of Jack Perkins represent opportunities for the organization to evaluate its young talent and provide depth to the roster.