Blake Walston Takes a Turn for D-backs against the A's

Originally posted on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI
By Jack Sommers | Last updated 2/26/24

The Diamondbacks play the A's today at Hohokam Stadium in Mesa, game time is 1:05 P.M. There is no D-backs television or radio available for this game. A's radio KNEW 960 will be broadcasting the game.

This is the 4th spring training Cactus League game for the D-backs, and the team has run out their four candidates for the 5th starter's spot for each game. Previously Tommy Henry, Ryne Nelson, and Slade Cecconi all had impressive two-inning outings. Today it's Blake Walston's turn. Earlier today Michael McDermott reported on the improvements the 6'5" left-hander is looking to make.

Lineups

Corbin Carroll gets a rep in center field today. Alek Thomas stayed behind at Salt River, allowing Kristian Robinson to get a start in right. Other prospects in the lineup include Jordan Lawlar at shortstop, Ivan Melendez at first base and Andres Chaparro at DH. In accordance with MLB directives, there must be at least four "representative" MLB roster players in the lineup, and the D-backs brought five of them to Mesa today. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. is back out in left field. He made an impressive sliding catch in his first game this year. Backup infielder contestants Jace Peterson and Emmanuel Rivera are playing second and third base today. Gold Glove Gabriel Moreno is behind the plate.

Following Walston on the mound we'll get our first in game look at Yu-Min Lin who has been wowing teammates, coaches, and media with his bullpen sessions. Other pitchers likely to throw in today's game are lefty Logan Allen, a non roster invitee, and righty Christian Mena who has been lighting up the radar gun so far in spring training.

This article first appeared on Arizona Diamondbacks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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