Luzardo shows off potential vs. Dodgers

MESA, Ariz. -- For two innings, Jesus Luzardo had it all, from the fastball that seemed to accelerate through the strike zone to the breaking pitches that looked as if they could cut glass to the offspeed deliveries that froze hitters into indecision.

Luzardo struck out three batters in two shutout innings Wednesday in the Dodgers' 5-3 exhibition triumph. It was easy to see why the 21-year-old left-hander is not only the A's’ top pitching prospect, but also one of the most formidable performers in all of the Minor Leagues who's knocking on the big league door.

Though Luzardo faced mostly batters who likely will begin the season in the Minors, A's pitching coach Scott Emerson knew excellence when he saw it.

"In my opinion, this guy's going to be an elite pitcher," Emerson said, indicating that Luzardo needs only a little more experience before he's ready for the Majors. "It's just about getting out there more. His fastball's electric, his changeup's really good and he has an exploding breaking ball."

Luzardo improved considerably from his previous Cactus League outing last Friday, when he worked one inning and yielded two hits and an unearned run. He felt more comfortable this time, unleashing his impossible deliveries at a rapid pace.

"I definitely felt a lot more confident than last time," Lazardo said. "All my pitches were working. Last time I had to get my feet wet. Now, I was more aggressive, attacking hitters. ... When I slow the game down, it really doesn't work out for me too well."

Said Emerson, "When I see guys work quick, they're confident."

Martini out after collision

Left fielder Nick Martini is expected to be sidelined for at least two more days with a hyperextended back. Martini, who injured himself when he collided with the wall in pursuit of a fly ball, was scheduled to undergo an MRI on his back, though results were not immediately known. A's manager Bob Melvin noted that Martini also banged up one of his knees during the mishap.

Up next

Due to competition, every game is an important one for Oakland's pitching staff. Left-hander Brett Anderson, who's penciled in for a spot on the starting rotation, will try to maintain his edge when he starts Thursday against the Cubs. Chris Bassitt, a candidate for the fifth starter's spot, will be among Anderson's relievers.