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Oakland A's Evaluate Roster Battles in Cactus League
Spring training stats may not tell the full story as players fight for jobs and roster spots
Feb. 21, 2026 at 6:40pm
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As the Oakland Athletics open their Cactus League schedule, the focus will be on evaluating key position battles and roster spots rather than relying too heavily on spring training statistics. Players like Matt Muncy, Brett Harris, Darell Hernaiz, and Denzel Clarke will be closely watched as they compete for the starting third base job and bench roles.
Why it matters
Spring training games provide an opportunity for players on the roster bubble to make their case, but the unique conditions of the Cactus League mean that traditional stats may not be the best indicator of a player's readiness for the regular season. Evaluating factors like defensive improvements, swing adjustments, and plate discipline will be crucial in determining who wins jobs.
The details
The A's will be looking to see if Muncy has improved his defense at third base after struggling there in 2025, and whether he can regain the offensive form that made him a promising prospect. Harris and Hernaiz, Muncy's main competitors at third, will need to demonstrate they can drive the ball with more authority to earn serious consideration. Outfielder Denzel Clarke will get a long look with Perez starting in center field, as the A's evaluate whether he has the plate discipline to complement his power potential.
- The Cactus League opens today, February 21, 2026.
- Perez is starting in center field for the A's opener.
The players
Matt Muncy
A third baseman who is the incumbent starter but struggled defensively and offensively in 2025, needing to show improvements in both areas to retain his job.
Brett Harris
A third base prospect competing with Muncy, needing to demonstrate he can drive the ball with more power to become a viable starting option.
Darell Hernaiz
Another third base prospect competing with Muncy, also needing to show he can generate more extra-base power to earn a starting role.
Denzel Clarke
An outfield prospect fighting for a bench spot, needing to show improved plate discipline to complement his raw power.
Vimael Machín
An outfielder competing for a bench role, needing to demonstrate he can be more selective at the plate and not chase pitches out of the zone.
What’s next
The A's will continue to evaluate these position battles throughout the Cactus League schedule, with key decisions likely coming in the final days of spring training.
The takeaway
The A's will be looking beyond the raw spring training stats to assess which players have made the necessary improvements to their game to earn starting jobs and roster spots. Evaluating factors like defense, plate discipline, and swing adjustments will be crucial in determining who breaks camp with the big league club.
