James Kaprielian gave Oakland A’s all they could have hoped for

James Kaprielian was set to make his first major league start on Wednesday. Although he had been brought up to the Oakland A’s out of necessity, he did not have much left to prove in the minors. However, expectations still had to be tempered, especially with the Red Sox as his opponent.

Kaprielian also did not exactly impress in his major league debut last year. He allowed three runs on four hits, including two homers, and two walks over his 3.2 innings. While he struck out four batters, it was fair to wonder how he would perform against such a solid opponent in his first start.

James Kaprielian gives Oakland A’s all they could have asked for

Things did not look promising in the first inning. Perhaps he had a case of nerves, getting that first start in Fenway Park, but he loaded the bases on two hits and a walk before getting anyone out. Although he walked in a run with two out, Kaprielian settled down from that point, escaping as he allowed just one run in what could have been a devasting inning.

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Getting out of that jam seemed to provide Kaprielian with the confidence boost he needed. From that point on, he pitched as though he knew he belonged in the majors, shutting down the Red Sox offense for the most part. He allowed just that one run on four hits and three walks over his five innings, striking out six as he earned his first career win.

It is a great sign for the A’s moving forward. With A.J. Puk, Mike Fiers, and Jesus Luzardo all sidelined, Oakland needs to find pieces that can fill the void. Kaprielian certainly did that in his first outing of the year, putting himself in line to get a longer look in the weeks ahead.

It is uncertain as to when the A’s walking wounded will return. Luzardo is considered week to week at this point, and there has not been an update as to how Fiers is progressing. Puk is on a rehab assignment, but his health is dubious at best and there is no guarantee as to his future role. Kaprielian could force himself into the A’s rotation plans.

James Kaprielian shook off a rough start to give the Oakland A’s the outing they needed. In doing so, he may have set himself up for the future.