Tyler Soderstrom is officially a member of the Oakland A’s, as he has signed for an above slot bonus.
It was known that, if the Oakland A’s were to convince Tyler Soderstrom to sign, it would be costly. Universally considered one of the top prospects available in the draft, he had been considered an excellent hitting prospect, and one of the best all around hitters in the draft. However, he was considered to be strongly committed to UCLA, necessitating a larger bonus to sway him to turn professional.
The A’s were able to do just that. Soderstrom has officially signed, receiving a $3.3 million bonus, the largest signing bonuses handed to a high school catcher in the draft pool era.
1st-rder Tyler Soderstrom officially signs with @Athletics for $3.3 million (slot 26 value = $2,653,400). California high school C gets largest bonus for prep C in bonus-pool era. One of best all-around offensive packages in @MLBDraft, son of ex-big lgr Steve (No. 6 pick in 1993)
— Jim Callis (@jimcallisMLB) June 29, 2020
Considered to be the top overall catching prospect, Soderstrom had also been considered one of the top hitters as well. As a high school junior, he had produced a 1.340 OPS in his 28 games, showing an excellent ability to get on base and plenty of power potential.
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There are some concerns regarding Soderstrom’s future. While he is considered to be a solid receiver with an excellent arm behind the plate, he is still very raw. His athleticism is an asset, but it also leads some scouts to feel that Soderstrom could eventually move to either third base or a corner outfield spot.
Nonetheless, the A’s have confidence in what Soderstrom could be. So much so, that they are expected to add him to the 60 man roster for the 2020 season. While it is highly unlikely that he will make his major league debut this season, his inclusion on the roster gives a greater chance to develop and work with some of the top talent in the A’s organization.
Soderstrom also provides more depth to an already solid position in the A’s farm. Sean Murphy is already considered one of the top catching prospects in the game, while Johan Heim and Austin Allen are considered respectable prospects in their own right. While a catcher is not an organizational need at this point, Soderstrom will be able to develop at a reasonable pace.
Tyler Soderstrom is now officially a member of the Oakland A’s. His next stop – the A’s 60 man roster.