Zac Gallen to Make First Cactus League Start Against Oakland A's

Zac Gallen will start for the Diamondbacks facing the Oakland A's and Shintaro Fujinami in a marquee spring training match up at Salt River Fields today. Game time is 1:10 P.M.

Gallen, who has been working on the back fields in simulation games and bullpen sessions, is facing hitters wearing another team's jersey for the first time this spring. Gallen explained his methodical approach to getting ready for the season a few days ago. A big part of that has been working out his approach to dealing with the pitch clock and new step off rules.

Fujinami was originally linked to the Diamondbacks in early off season rumors, but ultimately signed with the A's as an international free agent this past off season. In his first start of spring training he was as advertised, displaying swing and miss stuff but struggling with control.

Diamondbacks Lineup

In addition to the interesting pitching matchup, Corbin Carroll has already turned into a must see player for fans throughout the Cactus League. His five tool game has been on display from the start. In six games he's batting .375/.545/.625. He's drawn six walks already, has a two doubles, a triple, and a stolen base.

Jack McCarthy gets a start in centerfield today, and Kyle Lewis is back in the lineup at DH. Also notable is utility man Diego Castillo is playing right field today.

D-Backs relievers on deck and available today that might get into the game include Ryne Nelson, Andrew Chafin, Kyle Nelson, Miguel Castro, Zach McAllister, Carlos Vargas and Luis Frias.

If Ryne Nelson follows Gallen he'll likely have a target of at least 45-50 pitches to keep stretched out as a starter. In competition for the 5th rotation spot, he has been knocked around a bit in his first two outings.

Left handers Kyle Nelson and Andrew Chafin have not been having clean outings so far either. Chafin especially is working with reduced velocity and is struggling with the pacing of the pitch clock. Torey Lovullo expressed confidence in Chafin to round into shape before camp is over, but the velocity loss comes on the heels of losing a tick off his fastball last year as well. He'll need to make adjustments to remain effective going forward.