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Oakland A’s: Three players impressing thus far in spring training

By David Hill

MESA, ARIZONA - MARCH 01: Matt Olson #28 of the Oakland Athletics in action during a preseason game against the Cincinnati Reds at Hohokam Stadium on March 01, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
MESA, ARIZONA - MARCH 01: Matt Olson #28 of the Oakland Athletics in action during a preseason game against the Cincinnati Reds at Hohokam Stadium on March 01, 2021 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Oakland A's second baseman Tony Kemp
(Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /

It is difficult to put much stock in spring training statistics, especially this year. Major League Baseball has said that the ball used during the regular season will be different, a deader ball that should limit the number of home runs throughout the game. Spring training statistics, which are generally meaningless as is, are even more so this year.

Even with that caveat, those numbers are really the only measure of who has had a strong showing in spring training. For the Oakland A’s, that spring performance could lead to a player finding a spot on the roster or beginning the season in the minors. those numbers may be meaningless, but they still do tell a bit of a story.

Three Oakland A’s players impressing in spring training

Yes, it is early in the spring. But there are still several players that are making a case for a spot on the A’s roster. In some cases, they are pushing for a starting role or to be a part of the bullpen. In other cases, they are looking to prove that their disappointing 2020 seasons are behind them and that they are ready to return to form.

Let’s take a look at three players on the Oakland A’s that have impressed thus far in spring training.

Tony Kemp

Tony Kemp was going to have a role on the Oakland A’s roster. With his ability to play all three spots in the outfield, as well as second base, he was slated to be a valuable piece off of the A’s bench.

But that does not mean that Kemp is content with that role. He is looking to establish himself as a regular, especially given the unsettled nature of second base for Oakland. A hot start could propel him into a timeshare at the position, where the left handed hitting Kemp could make up the strong side of a platoon.

Kemp is living up to his end of the bargain thus far. In his seven at bats heading into Monday, he has three hits, including a home run and a double, and has stolen a base. While he is not going to be needed to hit for power, seeing this strong start could be a good sign for the upcoming season.

The Oakland A’s value Tony Kemp for what he means in the locker room and his versatility. He is trying to force his way into their plans at second base as well.