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Oakland A’s have two prospects named Player of the Month

By David Hill

(6/4/21) Stockton Ports' Tyler Soderstrom hits a pop fly during a California League baseball game against the Lake Elsinore Storm at the Stockton Ballpark in downtown Stockton.Portsvsstorm 056a
(6/4/21) Stockton Ports' Tyler Soderstrom hits a pop fly during a California League baseball game against the Lake Elsinore Storm at the Stockton Ballpark in downtown Stockton.Portsvsstorm 056a /
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The Oakland A’s farm system is not what it once was. With numerous younger players having graduated to the majors, and other prospects failing to live up to expectations or able to remain healthy, Oakland’s farm system is ranked amongst the worst of all 30 teams.

This does not mean that the A’s are devoid of talent. It is entirely possible that several of the unheralded players in their system could go on to have successful major league careers, potentially becoming All Stars before their time is done. The rankings are a guide, but are hardly a given.

Pair of Oakland A’s prospects have impressive June

That discrepancy in rankings was clear in June. The A’s had two prospects that were named as the Player of the Month in their respective leagues, both from different backgrounds.

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It should not be a surprise that Tyler Soderstrom was one of the prospects to be so honored. The 26th overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft had impressed during the A’s summer camp and has continued to do so in his first minor league season. He led Low-A West with eight homers, 61 total bases, and a .685 slugging percentage while finishing in the top five in OPS, RBI, doubles, and runs scored.

Cody Thomas also earned Player of the Month honors in Triple-A West. The former 13th round selection by the Dodgers in the 2016 MLB Draft came to Oakland as part of the deal that sent Sheldon Neuse to Los Angeles. Thomas led the league with 11 homers, 28 RBI, 74 total bases, and a .747 slugging percentage. He was also in the top five in runs, triples, OPS, and hits.

The A’s clearly have talent in the minors, even if Soderstrom is considered their only top 100 caliber prospect. Thomas could get a chance in the majors, if not this season, then next. Other players could potentially move up the rankings and change perceptions if they are able to impress as well.

Next. McFarland signs in St. Louis. dark

The Oakland A’s had a pair of prospects named as the Player of the Month in their leagues. They have more talent than one may think based on their system rankings.