Oakland Athletics: Picks to Click Heading into 2016

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.238/.296/.687 in 256 at-bats, five home runs and 37 RBIs

Aug 2, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics left fielder Mark Canha (20) is showered with gatorade during a post game interview after the game against the Cleveland Indians at O.co Coliseum. The Oakland Athletics defeated the Cleveland Indians 2-1 in extra innings. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

When he’s not launching home runs over the East Bay hills, Mark Canha and his lovely wife Marci are chowing down on some of the most exquisite meals around the country! Whether it’s Cioppino in San Francisco, festive carnitas tacos in New York, or an eloquently decorated pizza in Houston, it’s only a matter of time before the Canha’s get a call from the Food Network in regards to their own show, however I digress…

Surprisingly enough, Mark’s most memorable food review took place the day after Brooks’ stellar debut for the Athletics.

"“There it is… best meal of the year by far! A whipped cream pie to the fact with just a hint of orange infusion. Thanks everyone in A’s nation for the love! Great win!!! #letsgooakland – Mark Canha @bigleaguefoodie"

When Canha joined the Athletics organization, he fit right in with the green and gold’s philosophy of platooning hitters, and subsequently playing to their strengths. In his first six games for the ball club, the slugger from Cal posted an outstanding .366 batting average (11-30) including three doubles, a homer and seven RBIs.

For the next few weeks, Canha fell into a cold spell at the plate, but showed his versatility in the field. Whether in the corner outfield spots (48 starts), or manning first base (30), the right-hander proved he could handle the routine plays while showing off his above-average speed. Recently, Canha has started to find his swing — although the statistics state a drastic improvement versus right-handed pitching. In 71 games, the East Bay native has a .276 batting average with eight home runs and 31 RBIs; as opposite to a slash line of .163/0/6 against south paws.

How is this possible, you say?

Well, over the course of the season, there is no question that Canha’s quick hands on inside pitches appear to be one of his many strengths, especially in a 2-0 or 2-1 count. In this scenario he has launched five long balls over the fence along with 13 RBIs, and his numbers are just as adequate with runners on-base as demonstrated in this clip against the Halos.

There is no doubt that Canha could flourish immensely as an everyday starter. As he progresses over the course of his major league career, it is conceivable to witness a .250 to .260 with 20-25 homers a season from the guy who grew up in San Jose, California. With enough work on the diamond, Canha’s best fit in the field would be at first base. He’s a picking machine with good range and has a flair for the dramatic.

Next: An Unexpected Contributor Waiting in the Wings