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Oakland A’s top 10 prospects for 2022

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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(Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
(Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images) /

6. Colin Peluse

Colin Peluse was a relatively anonymous prospect heading into the 2021 season. He then exploded up the prospect rankings due to a breakout showing last year. Peluse put together an impressive 3.39 ERA and a 1.158 WHiP in his 101 innings across two levels, striking out 109 batters with just 26 walks.

Armed with a plus fastball and slider, the development of his changeup will determine his future. He has a tendency to slow his arm action down when throwing the change, something that could be problematic at the higher levels. If he can fix that arm action, Peluse profiles as a possible second starter. Otherwise, he could be a key part of the Oakland A’s bullpen.

5. Pedro Pineda

It did not take long for Pedro Pineda to come stateside. One of the top international signees in the 2020-21 class, he spent ten games in the Dominican Summer League before heading to Arizona. Between the two levels, he produced a .237/.368/.361 batting line in his 117 plate appearances with seven extra base hits and six steals.

Pineda has an excellent approach at the plate and tremendous bat speed, but can have some swing and miss issues as he tries too hard to hit homers. He has excellent speed and a strong arm, allowing him to play all three outfield positions. Pineda is going to be a fascinating prospect to watch, especially as he continues to refine his impressive raw tools.