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Pete Kozma impressing Oakland A’s in bid to return to majors

By David Hill

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 02: Pete Kozma #38 and Greg Deichmann #31 of the Oakland Athletics look to throw in the fifth inning during the MLB spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix on March 02, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - MARCH 02: Pete Kozma #38 and Greg Deichmann #31 of the Oakland Athletics look to throw in the fifth inning during the MLB spring training game at American Family Fields of Phoenix on March 02, 2021 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /
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It has been years since Pete Kozma was viewed as a major league caliber player. The one time Cardinals postseason star struggled in his one season as a starter in the majors, being relegated to a backup role before beginning his odyssey as minor league depth for numerous franchises.

That minor league odyssey has brought Kozma to the Oakland A’s. This signing may have given Kozma the opportunity he has been looking for, as the A’s have given him a long look thus far in spring training.

Pete Kozma impressing Oakland A’s in bid to return

The versatile Kozma had seen action in 12 games heading into Sunday, getting 18 plate appearances in that time. He has notched seven hits, with two doubles and a homer, while striking out just twice.

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Obviously, the A’s would not expect that type of production from Kozma should he make their roster. He has produced a .215/.278/.291 batting line in his 813 career plate appearances, hitting 33 doubles and five homers. However, he has spent time at second, short, and third as his primary positions, giving the A’s the type of defensive flexibility that they prefer.

Kozma does face an uphill battle to be a part of the A’s roster. Tony Kemp and Chad Pinder are likely to reprise their platoon at second, at least for the start of the season, as well as remaining in a utility role. Vimael Machin has a similar defensive profile, but has more upside with the bat. There is also the wild card that is Jed Lowrie as he returns from injury.

These are situations that are outside of his control. Kozma can only focus on his performance and continue to appear anywhere that the A’s plug him into the lineup. Thus far, he is doing exactly what he needs to in order to get another chance.

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Pete Kozma has impressed the Oakland A’s thus far. If he keeps performing well, he may end up with another look at the major leagues.