Oakland Athletics: The Athletics’ All-Time 25-Man Roster

Backup Outfielder: Jose Canseco

This Cuban-American outfielder was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in 1982 in the 15th round. Despite being drafted so late, Jose Canseco made his way through the minor league levels and arrived in the majors in 1985. Before he made his debut in September, he was named the Baseball America Minor League Player of the Year.

The 1986 season was his first full season in the big leagues. He crushed the competition with 33 homers and 117 RBI that year. His success was recognized around the league, and he won the American League Rookie of the Year Award. When Mark McGwire joined the team in 1987 and won Rookie of that Year that season, Canseco and McGwire were nicknamed the Bash Brothers for their offensive power at the plate.

In 1988, Canseco was unanimously named the American League MVP. This would be his last truly healthy season with the Athletics. In 1989, Canseco suffered a broken wrist, and in 1990 he started having problems with his back. Even though the A’s traded him in 1992 to the Texas Rangers, Canseco returned to the Oakland in 1997. Even though his season was once again shortened due to injury, he was able to play again with McGwire that year. Canseco’s bat will be forever remembered in recent Athletic history for being one of the strongest.

Next: The Outfield: The Backup Fielders