White Cleat Beat
Fansided

Oakland A’s: Buddy Reed looking to force his way on to roster

By David Hill

SUPRISE, AZ - March 1: Buddy Reed #72 of the Oakland Athletics fields during the game against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium on March 1, 2020 in Suprise, Arizona. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics/Getty Images)
SUPRISE, AZ - March 1: Buddy Reed #72 of the Oakland Athletics fields during the game against the Kansas City Royals at Surprise Stadium on March 1, 2020 in Suprise, Arizona. (Photo by Michael Zagaris/Oakland Athletics/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Buddy Reed has been an intriguing player since the Oakland A’s acquired him for Jurickson Profar. He is considered to have the best speed in the A’s system and is an incredible defensive outfielder. His raw tools and high ceiling had made him a second round draft pick back in 2016, but he had yet to do more than tantalize during his minor league career.

That may have changed during his time in the A’s alternative camp. He used that opportunity to work on every facet of the game, from the physical side with his hitting and defense to the mental side and relying more on his tools instead of overthinking.

Buddy Reed impressing for Oakland A’s during spring training

Thus far, the returns are positive. Yes, it is only spring training, but Reed is making quite the impression. Seemingly every day, he is doing something, from impressive outfield assists to hitting home runs.

More from White Cleat Beat

This is the type of growth that the A’s wanted to see. They wanted him to rely more upon the skillset that made him such a highly regarded draft pick in college. He seems far more comfortable on the diamond, more relaxed and confident in his abilities, which has translated to his production thus far.

Reed is still buried on the depth chart, facing an uphill battle for a spot on the major league roster. His showing in Double-A in 2019 hardly inspired much confidence. While he showed flashes of his ability, hitting 14 homers and stealing 23 bases, Reed also produced a meager .228/.310/.388 batting line in his 440 plate appearances.

Chances are, Reed will start the 2021 season in Triple-A when the minor league season begins. He is a victim of a numbers game in Oakland, where there just is no room for him on the roster. However, if he keeps making plays and impressing any time he sets foot on the diamond, he may force the A’s hand.

Next. Canha to see majority of time in left. dark

Buddy Reed has been impressive during the early part of spring training. If this continues, maybe he can force his way onto the Oakland A’s roster.