Oakland A’s: Luis Barrera could get his chance in 2020
By David Hill
Oakland A’s prospect Luis Barrera could get a chance to show what he can do at the major league level in 2020.
Luis Barrera flies under the radar when it comes to prospects close to reaching the majors. With the Oakland A’s top three prospects all expected to play a major role in 2020, those other minor leaguers, such as Barrera, can be overlooked. Yet, at some point, they could also become key pieces for the A’s, as they wait for their chance.
For Barrera, that opportunity could come this season. He was one of six players added to the A’s 60 man roster on Wednesday, although he was again overshadowed in that news.
The Athletics have added INFs Eric Campbell and Robert Puason, RHPs Wandisson Charles and Miguel Romero, and OFs Luis Barrera and Brayan Buelvas to their 60-man Player Pool. Campbell will report to the Coliseum, while will the others will report to the team’s alternate site.
— Mark Feinsand (@Feinsand) July 1, 2020
That debut could have occurred in 2019 had it not been for injury. He required surgery to his non-throwing shoulder in June, eventually being sidelined after attempting to play through the pain.
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When Barrera was on the diamond last year, he finally showed signs of progress. In his 240 plate appearances, he produced a solid .321/.357/.513 batting line, hitting nine doubles, 11 triples, and four homers. Although he drew just 12 walks, Barrera also struck out only 48 times.
That stat line fits his profile perfectly. He is aggressive at the plate, slashing line drives into the gaps and using his speed to get extra bases. Barrera is never going to walk much, but his strong contact skills allow that approach to work well. That aggression also shows on the basepaths and on defense, as his shoulder injury was worsened by his willingness to dive for balls in the outfield.
Should he make his major league debut this year, it will have been a long time in the making. While he is just 24 years old, Barrera has been a part of the A’s organization since 2012, and did not appear in full season ball until 2016. While he may serve as a fourth outfielder at first, Barrera has the potential to be a solid player for the A’s moving forward.
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That time could come as soon as this season. Luis Barrera has been added to the Oakland A’s 60 man roster, and is just a step away from reaching the majors.