Dunn not in Athletics' starting lineup for Tuesday's wild-card game

The Oakland Athletics traded for Adam Dunn to bolster their left-handed hitting lineup. Turns out they won't be needing the slugger - not to start the game, anyways.

Dunn is not in Tuesday's starting lineup against the Kansas City Royals, despite the presence of right-hander James Shields on the mound. It's Dunn's first postseason game in his 14-year career.

Brandon Moss will serve as the club's designated hitter.

Given manager Bob Melvin's decision to go with Geovany Soto at catcher instead of Derek Norris, the Athletics appear to be fielding their best defensive lineup. Dunn's absence opens the door for Sam Fuld to start in left field.

Despite the emphasis on defense, not starting Dunn against Shields will be perceived as quite the gamble for a single-elimination game. While Dunn would require the DH position, thus limiting Melvin's flexibility with his bench, there's no denying Dunn's ability to hit righties.

Here's a comparison between Fuld, also a left-handed hitter, and Dunn against right-handers this season:

While Dunn has more experience hitting Shields (7-for-35 to Fuld's 2-for-10), neither has been particular effective against the Royals' ace.

With right-handers Wade Davis, Kelvin Herrera and Greg Holland lurking in the vaunted Royals bullpen, there's a good chance Dunn will make an appearance before the night is over.