Oakland Athletics 2016 Preview: Outfielder Sam Fuld
Oakland Athletics’ outfielder Sam Fuld is in danger of not making the Opening Day roster
The Oakland Athletics are going to have to make some tough roster cuts before the 2016 regular season begins. One of those players currently in jeopardy of being designated for assignment is outfielder Sam Fuld. Fuld’s journey with the A’s has been an interesting one and this may be the second time Oakland places Fuld on waivers.
Fuld signed a minor league contract with the Oakland Athletics in January of 2014. He made the Opening Day roster, but only played in seven games before being DFA’d. Craig Gentry took Fuld’s spot on the A’s roster and the Minnesota Twins claimed Fuld off of waivers. Interesting enough, just a few months later, the Athletics made a trade with the Twins to re-acquire Fuld. He has been with the A’s ever since.
Fuld’s 2015 season was mediocre. As always, his defense in the outfield was great and he readily took over for Coco Crisp in left field last year. However, he bat was nonexistent. He hit .197 with two home runs and 22 RBI. If he wants any chance of making the Athletics’ Opening Day roster this year, he will need to work on his swing.
Interestingly enough, he has been working on his approach at the plate. As reported by Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle, Fuld has been learning a few things by watching former teammate and 2015 American League MVP Josh Donaldson. If Fuld can improve his swing, he may be worth keep because of his defensive skills in the outfield.
Manager Bob Melvin agrees. Melvin told the press that he thinks they will be able to find room for Fuld on the roster because of his A+ defense. There are some other avenue’s the Athletics could take in order to keep Fuld on the roster such as DFA’ing Andrew Lambo, who was initially acquired to add depth to the outfield – three positions that are now overflowing with qualified players.
It is clear that the A’s value Fuld for they brought him back to Oakland after letting him go in 2014. But, will they be able to make enough room in order for Fuld to start the 2016 in green and gold? If his bat does not improve, the Athletics may have to let him go.
Bold Prediction: Sam Fuld will not make the Oakland Athletics’ Opening Day roster. However, he will clear waivers and begin the 2016 season in Triple-A with the A’s affiliate the Nashville Sounds.
Next: A's Select Eric Surkamp to Start Cactus League Opener