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Oakland Athletics still looking for shortstop of the future

By David Hill

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 28: Marcus Semien #10 of the Oakland Athletics plays shortstop during the game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on September 28, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. The Athletics defeated the Mariners 1-0. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 28: Marcus Semien #10 of the Oakland Athletics plays shortstop during the game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on September 28, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. The Athletics defeated the Mariners 1-0. (Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)
(Photo by Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images) /

Sheldon Neuse

In theory, Sheldon Neuse was a part of the Oakland Athletics battle for second base. However, since he had options left, he was on the outside looking in.

That does not mean that he will not be a part of the A’s future. In fact, that time could come as early as this season, given his impressive .317/.389/.550 batting line with 31 doubles and 27 homers in AAA last season. Should Neuse replicate that success this season, he may not be in the minors for much longer.

Neuse is likely best suited to a utility role in the majors. He has seen most of his minor league action at third, but is blocked by the presence of Matt Chapman. Oakland has looked to expand his defensive versatility in recent years, as he has spent time at second and short as well.

That versatility, and experience at short, could be the answer for the A’s in 2021. While Neuse only has 67 games worth of experience at the position, he could end up as the default option in Oakland. Neuse has displayed respectable range at the position, and his athleticism could make him a useful option at short.

Even if Sheldon Neuse is likely to be a utility man at major league level, he could be an option for the Oakland Athletics at short as soon as next year.