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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(Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
(Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

7. Nick Allen

Nick Allen is a throwback in the middle of the infield – a stellar defensive player who might hit about .250 in a good season.

Yet, that might be all the Oakland A’s need. With shortstop being a question mark beyond the 2020 season, Allen could get a chance to take over the position moving forward. If he can produce anything close to the .292/.363/.434 batting line and 22 doubles he had in Stockton last season, along with his stellar defense, the A’s would be ecstatic.

But that is the question. Allen had displayed an advanced approach with a line drive oriented swing before he was injured last season, but was unable to get back on track when he got healthy. Allen does have a tendency to buy into the launch angle revolution too much for a player with his limited power, but with a line drive approach and his speed, he could be a respectable hitter at the bottom of the order.

His glove, regardless of any offensive gains, will be his calling card. That glove is major league ready now, and could contend for a Gold Glove immediately. He has excellent range, incredible instincts, and a plus arm, making him a lock to remain at short. Allen could also handle second as well, and could, if nothing else, become a defensive oriented utility man in the majors.

Nick Allen is the type of player who is a better professional than a fantasy asset. As long as he helps the Oakland A’s win games in the long run, that is all that matters.