September Call-Ups: 5 Players You Can Expect to See in Oakland

1. Billy Burns

Mar 6, 2014; Salt River Pima-Maricopa, AZ, USA; Oakland Athletics outfielder Billy Burns (19) is caught in a run down between first and second base in the sixth inning of their spring training game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick. Mandatory Credit: Lance Iversen-USA TODAY Sports

Billy Burns already got a peek at the big leagues this season due to injuries in Oakland. This time, they are going to let him loose. Burns was acquired much for the same reason Gentry was: speed.

Billy Beane went after speed in the offseason, much like he went after elite pitchers at the trading deadline. He knows he has to find a way to either score runs, or hold the opposition. If the big sluggers don’t bring the rain, then it’s up to someone–anyone to get on base.

This is where Billy Burns comes in.

With his speed, Burns can pinch-run, swipe a bag or two and really up the pressure on the opposing pitcher. The addition of Burns also means that Bob Melvin has two speed bullets on the bench, instead of just the one in Gentry.

Giving Burns a look in September means he could make the postseason roster if he performs well. It also gets his feet a little wet in reading major league pitchers. With Double-A Midland this season, Burns swiped 51 bags, and was caught just 5 times (91%). In Sacramento, he has two steals, but has been caught once as well.

Having Burns in town for a series against the Angels could be a huge move if the A’s decide to include Burns on the postseason roster. Allowing Burns to scout Angel pitching for 3 games, and possibly seeing some action late could provide him with enough knowledge for later. The way things are shaping up, the A’s and Angels have a good chance of meeting up in the ALDS, if the Wild Card team wins their game. If that’s the case, having Burns available could literally steal a game.