Jed Lowrie may have inside track on second base job

It is easy to take spring training with a grain of salt, especially when the games have yet to begin. Everyone is in the best shape of their lives and most of the news coming out of camp is positive. But in the case of Oakland A’s infielder Jed Lowrie, those positive reports matter a lot more than usual.

After all, Lowrie has essentially been MIA from the diamond since his previous stint in Oakland. He signed a two year deal with the Mets, which resulted in his appearing in a grand total of nine games due to a myriad of injuries suffered seemingly from the time he inked that contract. Just that fact that Lowrie was able to make it through signing his contract without injury was a minor miracle.

Jed Lowrie positioned for major role

Absolutely nothing could be expected from Lowrie, especially from the early part of spring training. However, the reports are overwhelmingly positive, with manager Bob Melvin saying that he still has his swing from his heyday, driving balls with authority during batting practice from either side of the plate.

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As it is, the A’s are going to take their time with Lowrie during camp. He is going to get his first plate appearances as a designated hitter, slowly working his way into the lineup at second base. His progress during spring training is certain to be monitored, especially with the A’s searching for a solution at the keystone.

If Lowrie is healthy, he becomes the most dynamic bat for the position. While Chad Pinder, Tony Kemp, and Vimael Machin are a part of the mix at second, they are all better suited as utility players. None of them have the same history of success that Lowrie has had in their careers. But that is a big if.

Nonetheless, it is easy to see that the A’s are optimistic that Lowrie can be a part of the solution. Melvin’s assessment of how he looks during batting practice is certainly encouraging. If he can show that he is also ready to play at second, the position may well be his.

It is easy to disregard spring training reports. However, in the case of Jed Lowrie, the Oakland A’s will take any good news they can get.