MESA, Ariz. -- A's outfielder Jake Smolinski, slowed by a right shoulder injury this spring, is set to appear in his first Cactus League game Sunday, albeit in a limited role.
Smolinski is penciled in as the designated hitter for a road matchup with the Mariners, batting seventh. It's unclear when he'll return to the outfield.
"We're not quite there yet, but he's feeling good enough to DH, so he's obviously coming along," A's manager Bob Melvin said. "But when we can get him in the field, I'm not sure."
Smolinski, vying for the last roster spot as a fifth outfielder, has some catching up to do.