Oakland Athletics: Four September Call-Ups Who Have Impressed Thus Far

2. Sean Nolin (SP)

Sep 6, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Sean Nolin (47) pitches the ball against the Seattle Mariners during the second inning at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Nolin was a top prospect when the Oakland Athletics acquired him in the Josh Donaldson deal during the offseason. However, due to a nagging injury, Nolin did not pitch for most of the 2015 Minor League season. Finally, he took the mound somewhat regularly in mid-August and was called up to the Major Leagues on September 4. The A’s were ready to see what Nolin could bring to the table.

Even though Nolin’s pitch count had only just reached into the 70s during his last Minor League start on August 31 before being brought up to Oakland, the A’s had Nolin take the mound for his first MLB game of the 2015 season on September 6. The Athletics may have lost, but Nolin made a good impression during this start. He went six innings and only allowed three earned runs – all which occurred in the fifth.

His second and third starts were equally as consistent. On September 12 against the Texas Rangers, Nolin only allowed one run over 5.2 innings. He also struck out five. On September 17 against the Chicago White Sox, he pitched five innings allowing just two runs and walking three.

Even though his most recent outing on September 22 against the Texas Rangers has been his worst thus far, it must be remembered that he did not pitch consistently for the majority of the Minor League season. Based on his past performances, Nolin should be a reliable and consistent starter for the A’s once he is in a more regular routine.

Next: Catcher Carson Blair