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James Kaprielian may be back sooner than expected

By David Hill

Jul 27, 2021; San Diego, California, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher James Kaprielian (32) throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres during the first inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 27, 2021; San Diego, California, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher James Kaprielian (32) throws a pitch against the San Diego Padres during the first inning at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /
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James Kaprielian has been a major surprise for the Oakland A’s. Pressed into service due to injury and poor performance, the A’s were hoping that Kaprielian could show the form that made him such a highly touted prospect before injuries put his ascension to the majors on hold. He had begun to establish himself as one of the more impressive rookie pitchers in the game this season, only to land on the Injured List with a shoulder impingement.

It turns out that Kaprielian’s stay on the IL may not last much longer. The A’s rookie has been playing catch, and could be activated in time to take the ball on August 8 when he is first eligible to return.

James Kaprielian may not be out much longer

Kaprielian had a brief stint in the majors last season, getting roughed up in his two outings. He had allowed three runs on four hits, including two homers, and two walks over his 3.2 innings in 2020, hardly the type of showing that the A’s were looking for.

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This season has been drastically different. Perhaps having the knowledge that his spot in the rotation was safe made a difference, as he has been able to impress his coaches and teammates. Kaprielian had posted a 3.24 ERA and a 1.161 WHiP over his 72.1 innings, striking out 79 batters with 27 walks.

As the back of the A’s rotation had been a question mark through the first month of the season, Kaprielian’s emergence came at the perfect time. He has been able to solidify the fifth starter spot at a time when it was sorely needed, teaming with Cole Irvin to give Oakland a pair of unexpectedly solid arms.

While Daulton Jefferies did fare relatively well in his place, Kaprielian has earned the confidence of the clubhouse. They believe that he will give them a solid outing every time he takes the ball, a faith that has been well rewarded this season. The A’s are certainly hoping that his return comes sooner rather than later.

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James Kaprielian may return sooner than the Oakland A’s had expected. His return would certainly be a boost to the rotation.