The Oakland Athletics are evaluating Jack Perkins‘ role for the 2026 season, considering whether he will return as a starting pitcher or shift into a reliever position, according to recent statements from the team. The focus on determining Jack Perkins’ role for 2026 comes as he prepares to enter spring camp following a right shoulder strain that ended his previous season.
Coaching Staff Deliberates Over Pitching Assignment
Manager Mark Kotsay confirmed last week that while Perkins is currently set to train as a starter, the Athletics have not finalized their decision on his position for 2026. The uncertainty is rooted in both Perkins’ recovery status and his previous performances in different pitching roles last season.
“He’s a weapon that we have yet to determine the path,”
Kotsay said. Perkins demonstrated greater effectiveness last year out of the bullpen, posting a 2.75 ERA and striking out 24.7 percent of batters faced as a reliever. In contrast, when he was utilized as a starter, his ERA climbed to 5.68 with a 21.4 percent strikeout rate. Despite these variations, the 26-year-old is recognized as one of the franchise’s top young arms, and the Athletics want to explore all options before settling on his future position.
Perkins’ Health and Readiness for Spring Training
The end of last season saw Perkins placed on the injured list due to a right shoulder strain. As the Athletics begin spring preparations, it is still unknown if he will be fully cleared or face any limitations upon reporting to camp. Both his health progress and the team’s assessment of his strengths are expected to play a key role in the ultimate decision about his assignment.
Team Strategy Ahead of the 2026 Campaign
The outcome of the Athletics’ evaluation will influence not just Perkins’ career trajectory but also the team’s pitching depth strategy for the upcoming season. As the club navigates its options, all eyes will be on how Jack Perkins’ role in 2026 unfolds, and the manner in which Oakland plans to utilize his abilities, either as a potential starter or as a valuable asset in the bullpen.
