As the 2026 season approaches, the Oakland Athletics enter the year with a dynamic, young roster that has fans excited about its offensive potential. With promising talent across the lineup and key offseason moves, the A’s look capable of competing in any game—but pitching remains the biggest question mark. How Luis Severino, Jeffrey Springs, and top pitching prospects perform will determine whether Oakland can take the next step toward contending.
The offseason brought important moves, including signing Jeff McNeil, adding reliever Mark Leiter Jr., and extending catcher Tyler Soderstrom, showing the team is committed to building around its core while developing depth for the future.
Key Players & Offensive Outlook
Oakland’s lineup is built around a young, exciting core, headlined by rookie sensation Nick Kurtz. Power and versatility come from Brent Rooker and Soderstrom, while Shea Langeliers provides an emerging presence behind the plate. Players like Jacob Wilson and Lawrence Butler add depth and flexibility, making Oakland a difficult team to pitch against when everyone is performing at their peak.
Projected Key Offensive Contributors for 2026:
| Player | Position | 2025 Stats | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nick Kurtz | 1B | .290 AVG, 36 HR, 86 RBI | Rookie sensation, power and contact hitting |
| Brent Rooker | OF/DH | .262 AVG, 30 HR, 89 RBI | Middle-of-lineup power, protection for top hitters |
| Shea Langeliers | C | .277 AVG, 31 HR, 72 RBI | Power and plate discipline, strong catcher defense |
| Tyler Soderstrom | 1B/LF | .276 AVG, 25 HR, 93 RBI | Emerging cornerstone, high upside |
| Jacob Wilson | SS/2B | .311 AVG, 13 HR, 63 RBI | Versatility, solid on-base skills |
| Lawrence Butler | OF | .234 AVG, 21 HR, 63 RBI | Contact hitter with pop, adds depth |
The lineup combines talent, depth, and potential. While there are uncertainties with some younger players, the offense is poised to consistently generate runs, giving Oakland a strong foundation to win games even if the pitching staff struggles early in the season.
Offseason Additions:
- Jeff McNeil (2B/Utility): Adds contact hitting and versatility, capable of stepping into multiple lineup spots.
- Mark Leiter Jr. (RHP): Bolsters the bullpen after Mason Miller’s departure.
- Tyler Soderstrom Extension: Locks in one of the A’s brightest young stars.
Pitching Outlook — The Main Question Mark
While the offense looks promising, pitching remains the biggest challenge for the A’s. The rotation features Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs, but the staff still lacks consistent depth. Top prospects Jamie Arnold and Gage Jump are pushing for major league roles and could provide meaningful innings if given the opportunity.
Projected Rotation for 2026:
| Starter | Role | 2025 Stats | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Luis Severino | SP | 8-11, 4.54 ERA | Veteran anchor, innings-eater |
| Jeffrey Springs | SP | 11-11, 4.11 ERA | Experienced mid-rotation arm |
| Jamie Arnold | SP | High-A/AA | Top pitching prospect, fastball/slider mix |
| Gage Jump | SP | AAA | Power pitcher, high upside if MLB-ready |
Bullpen Notes:
- Relievers Mark Leiter Jr., Hogan Harris, Michael Kelly, and Elvis Alvarado are expected to contribute immediately.
- Depth and consistency will remain a concern, making closer and late-inning roles critical for the team’s success.
The A’s will likely explore adding a mid-rotation starter or bullpen arm to complement their young staff and support the offense-heavy lineup.
Team Strategy & 2026 Outlook
Oakland is focused on building a competitive roster while preparing for its Las Vegas future. By blending veterans with young talent, the team is aiming for growth without sacrificing the chance to win now.
Season Challenges:
- The A’s open the year with 12 of their first 15 games on the road against tough opponents. Early performance will be crucial to set the tone for the season.
- Pitching consistency will determine how far the offense can carry the team.
Key Factor for Success:
If the rotation and bullpen perform at even league-average levels, Oakland’s strong lineup could turn a lot of close games into wins. Young hitters will need to stay healthy, and prospects may need to contribute sooner than expected.
2026 Projected Lineup (Opening Day)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| 1B | Nick Kurtz |
| C | Shea Langeliers |
| LF | Tyler Soderstrom |
| DH | Brent Rooker |
| 2B | Jeff McNeil |
| SS | Jacob Wilson |
| RF | Lawrence Butler |
| 3B | Brett Harris |
| CF | Denzel Clarke |
This lineup showcases youthful power, versatility, and depth, giving Oakland a foundation to compete while also developing its prospects.
Key Offseason Moves
- Jeff McNeil Signing: Brings contact hitting, versatility, and veteran presence.
- Mark Leiter Jr. Addition: Strengthens the bullpen after trading Mason Miller.
- Tyler Soderstrom Extension: Locks in the team’s top catching prospect, building around a key young piece.
2026 Schedule Highlight
Fans will get a sneak peek of Oakland’s future Las Vegas ballpark during a homestand hosting the Brewers and Rockies. These games will showcase the team’s offensive core and give fans a glimpse of what’s to come as the A’s transition to their new home.
Final Take
The 2026 Oakland A’s are a team on the rise, powered by a young, talented offense but tempered by uncertain pitching. If Severino, Springs, and the top prospects can stabilize the rotation, the lineup has the firepower to keep Oakland competitive and potentially surprise the league.
Success will depend on pitching consistency, prospect development, and smart in-season moves, but the team has a clear path forward. The 2026 season could serve as an important building block as Oakland moves toward its Las Vegas future, providing fans with exciting baseball and a glimpse of the team’s long-term potential.
