Tyler Ferguson set to start for Athletics against Rangers

The Oakland Athletics will take on the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers this afternoon. JP Sears had been listed as the probable starter as of yesterday but it looks like Tyler Ferguson will get his first start of the spring in his stead.

Ferguson has appeared in 7 games for the A's thus far. He's yet to allow a run in 5.1 innings and has 6 strikeouts with 4 free passes.

The righty was added on a minor league contract earlier this offseason with an invite to spring training. He'll be entering his 10th professional season, having split time in the Rangers and Diamondbacks systems.

He started 3 games with the Diamondbacks Triple-A affiliate in 2023 but outside of that, had not earned a start in just over 200 previous appearances. He's not expected to provide starting depth but will throw an inning or so to kick off the afternoon today.

Minus Abraham Toro getting the start over JD Davis, today's lineup looks quite a bit like one we could see during the regular season. Ryan Noda will bat leadoff. It's always a bit weird to think of a first baseman hitting at the top of the lineup but Noda's .364 OBP in what was his rookie year is a testament to his plate discipline.

The A's will need to find ways to get runners on base early on this season and letting Noda consistently hit in the first inning should prove to be a smart decision.

Miguel Andujar will look to keep his hot streak going as he works his way back from a calf injury. It's unclear whether Lawrence Butler will start the year in the major leagues but he has the talent to stick around once he gets the opportunity.

The Rangers will counter with right hander Yerry Rodriguez today. The 26 year old has appeared in 4 games for the Rangers this spring, pitching to a 4.76 ERA. He's unlikely to start the year in the majors but could provide pitching depth if they run into injury problems like they did last year.

First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 pm PST this afternoon.