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Oakland A’s: Sheldon Neuse expected to be on trade block

By David Hill

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 30: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Sheldon Neuse #64 of the Oakland Athletics in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on August 30, 2019 in New York City. The A's defeated the Yankees 8-2. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - AUGUST 30: (NEW YORK DAILIES OUT) Sheldon Neuse #64 of the Oakland Athletics in action against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on August 30, 2019 in New York City. The A's defeated the Yankees 8-2. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /
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According to MLB.com, Sheldon Neuse is the prospect that the Oakland A’s are the most likely to deal.

Sheldon Neuse finds himself in a strange position with the Oakland A’s. In theory, he could be a piece of the puzzle for the 2021 season, especially as there are holes at second and short. His ability to play third could work to their advantage as well, especially given Matt Chapman‘s recovery from hip surgery.

But the same could have been said last year. The A’s were unable to get any production out of second base until they traded for Tommy La Stella. Chapman’s injury opened a door for Neuse, but Oakland opted to sign Jake Lamb instead.

This leaves the question of whether or not Neuse is a part of the A’s future plans. At least one source appears to think that he is not, as MLB.com considers the A’s infielder to be the prospect most likely to be dealt this offseason.

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Neuse had a breakout 2019 season to put himself squarely on the prospect map. While offensive numbers are inflated in the Pacific Coast League, his .317/.389/.500 batting line with 31 doubles and 27 homers attracted attention. He may not have replicated those numbers in his major league trial, but his .250/.294/.304 batting line in 61 plate appearances was not terrible.

He also has the ability to play multiple positions that teams look for. Neuse has spent time at second, third, and short, and could also be an option in left. The biggest issue facing Neuse with the A’s is that they already have several players that essentially provide the same skillset he possesses.

Given the state of the A’s roster, there would seem to be a place for Neuse going forward. But the same could have been said last year when the A’s also had an opening at second and he was not considered. If he is to impact Oakland’s roster, it may be with his return as a trade chip.

Next. Three trade targets for pitching staff. dark

Sheldon Neuse is considered to be the prospect the Oakland A’s are most likely to trade. Considering how he had been bypassed in 2020, it is difficult to find fault with that belief.