White Cleat Beat
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Oakland A’s top ten prospects for 2020

By David Hill

OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: A.J. Puk #31 and Jesus Luzardo #44 of the Oakland Athletics sit in the dugout prior to the game against the Texas Rangers at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 21, 2019 in Oakland, California. The Athletics defeated the Rangers 12-3. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: A.J. Puk #31 and Jesus Luzardo #44 of the Oakland Athletics sit in the dugout prior to the game against the Texas Rangers at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on September 21, 2019 in Oakland, California. The Athletics defeated the Rangers 12-3. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics/Getty Images) /
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Oakland Athletics prospect James Kaprielian
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

9. James Kaprielian

Despite injuries keeping him away from the mound for two seasons, James Kaprielian remains an intriguing prospect for the Oakland A’s.

His has been a star crossed career, as he made a total of eight minor league appearances in his first two seasons. Following an impressive seven game stint in the Arizona Fall League, he missed the next two seasons due to Tommy John surgery and a myriad of setbacks.

Finally back on the mound in 2019, he performed well in his limited action. The A’s understandably looked to protect their prospect, as he pitched just 68 innings over 19 appearances. However, he posted a 3.18 ERA and a 1.103 WHiP, striking out 75 batters with just 16 walks in that time, re-establishing himself as a prospect to watch.

Although he is already 25 years old, Kaprielian has the type of arsenal that could lead to a major league debut before long. His fastball velocity is not where it had been prior to surgery, but he has four pitches considered major league caliber. His slider, curve, and change have all been able to get outs, giving Kaprielian an impressive foundation to build upon.

If James Kaprielian can stay healthy, he could be a big part of the Oakland A’s future. However, at this point, that is a big if.