Kyle McCann considered Oakland A’s most promising future slugger

Kyle McCann is an intriguing prospect for the Oakland A’s, albeit one whose future position is in question. He had been drafted as a catcher, and has continued to work on his craft behind the plate, but does not really have a path to consistent playing time as he progresses. Between Sean Murphy in the majors, and 2020 first round pick Tyler Soderstrom, McCann’s future may not lie behind the plate.

This is something the A’s may realize. McCann has appeared at first during his time in the A’s system, and played the position in college. While his collegiate experience at first was due to the presence of Joey Bart, that could be his position moving forward.

Kyle McCann considered most promising future slugger in Oakland A’s system

Regardless of his future position, there is no question that McCann possesses some truly impressive power. In fact, MLB.com considers him to be the most promising slugger in the A’s system.

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McCann showed why the A’s, and others throughout the game, would be bullish about his ability to hit for power. He slugged nine homers and nine doubles in 250 plate appearances between his two stops in 2019. As he continues to develop, some of those doubles will turn into home runs as well, making him a potential 30 home run hitter.

But his performance that year also showed some of the concerns in his offensive profile. McCann produced a .211/.312/.404 batting line, drawing 30 walks, but also striking out 87 times. He has a great deal of swing and miss in his game, but does mitigate that with a solid batting eye. Given his profile, he has drawn comparisons to Orioles first baseman Chris Davis, in both the positive and negative light.

McCann may find himself at first in the long term. Matt Olson is going to start getting expensive and may depart in free agency. If his power develops as hoped, McCann would certainly have the thump needed to stick at the position.

Kyle McCann is considered the most promising future slugger in the Oakland A’s system. If he can make more consistent contact, he could become the A’s next great power threat.