The Los Angeles Dodgers unofficially begin their World Series title defense Sunday afternoon with a matchup against the Oakland Athletics at HohoKam Stadium in Mesa, Arizona. The Cactus League opener will be shortened to seven innings as both teams build up their pitchers.
The Dodgers start non-roster invitee Mike Kickham, and Garrett Cleavinger, Andre Jackson, Dennis Santana, Edwin Uceta and Michael Grove are also expected to pitch. Kickham, who signed a Minor League contract with the Dodgers in January, is schedlued to go two innings.
He’s 1-4 with a 9.95 ERA in 20 career Major League games (five starts).