Oakland A’s: Three players that need to step up
By David Hill
Elvis Andrus
No one was expecting Elvis Andrus to be Marcus Semien. However, the Oakland A’s were hoping that he would rediscover his ability with the bat now that he has a change of scenery.
That has not helped to this point. Andrus struggled in spring training, but statistics in March are generally meaningless. However, given his struggles over the past few years, the A’s and their fans had to hope for something positive from their new shortstop heading into the season.
As much as he struggled in the Cactus League, Andrus has been worse in the regular season. He has posted a putrid .094/.091/.156 batting line in 33 plate appearances, failing to draw a walk. While two of his three hits have been doubles, he has done virtually nothing on offense while costing the A’s two runs defensively.
At best, Andrus was a stopgap solution until one of the A’s shortstop prospects are ready for the majors. Bringing him on board was a way of clearing some money for this season, as the Rangers took on Khris Davis and his contract. But the A’s need Andrus to at least be competent with the bat until someone is ready to take over.
Elvis Andrus has struggled since the start of the 2018 season. The Oakland A’s need him to turn his career, and season, around soon.