Twins Set Lineup as Zebby Matthews Takes the Mound Against Athletics

Minnesota looks to bounce back from a three-game sweep in San Diego as it opens a crucial series against the Athletics.

Aug 18, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Zebby Matthews (52) throws to the Atlanta Braves in the first inning at Target Field. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

After getting swept out of San Diego, the Twins look to bounce back against the worst team in the American League, the Athletics. For the Twins, this is a big series, and they need to capitalize on the weak opponent they will see.

For the Twins on Monday, they will be sending out RHP Zebby Matthews. Matthews has had an up and down season in 2026 and, going down the stretch, needs to string together some good starts. On the season, Matthews is 7-8 with a 5.12 ERA and 81 strikeouts. One thing that should be of note for Matthews tonight is he gives up 1.77 HR/9, and Sacramento is a ballpark that yields the home run ball.

For the Athletics, it will be the first of two lefties they will throw against the Twins this series: Jeffery Springs. Springs has a 3-11 record with a 6.02 ERA and 89 strikeouts on the season. Springs is not a great pitcher to say the least and should be someone the Twins can hit around tonight.

The good news for the Twins, the Padres have used closer Mason Miller on back-to-back days, so that might prevent the Padres from using him today.

First pitch is scheduled for 8:40 p.m. CT at Sutter Health Park.

Minnesota Twins Starting Lineup

1. Luke Keaschall — RF
2. Byron Buxton — CF
3. Ryan Jeffers — C
4. Josh Bell — DH
5. Kody Clemens — LF
6. Royce Lewis — 1B
7. Kaelen Culpepper — SS
8. Brooks Lee — 3B
9. Ryan Kreidler — 2B

Lineup Notes

In his postgame press conference following the series in San Diego, Twins manager Derek Shelton told the media that he expected Ryan Kreidler to be in the Twins lineup against the left-hander, and that’s exactly what happened today. Kaelen Cullpepper was also moved up in the order with Ryan Jeffers returning from his off day.

3 Matchups to Watch

Aug 22, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; Minnesota Twins right fielder Luke Keaschall (15) hits a RBI double during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Lawrence Butler vs. Zebby Matthews

The Athletics lineup has been ravaged by injuries of late, and one of the main regulars in their lineup is Lawerence Butler. Butler has a .220 batting average with 11 home runs this season, which are both below his career norms. Butler might be one of the only household names that he faces in the A’s lineup. 

Kody Clemens vs. Jeffery Springs

Kody Clemens has been abysmal in the month of August, but as of late, the at-bats have been better. The next step is power, and Matthews is someone who Clemens should be able to handle in that department. In a minimal career sample size, Clemens is 1-1 with an RBI. 

Luke Keaschall vs. Jeffery Springs

Luke Keaschall moved to the leadoff spot last week and has been hot in his last seven games. Keaschall this past week has a .345 batting average with a home run and two RBIs. Having Keaschall at the top of the lineup has been really beneficial because he’s getting on base and making things happen. Keaschall has the ability to be a catalyst against Springs early in the game.