The Oakland A’s seemingly have shortstop locked up for the next few years. The sure handed Nick Allen is on the cusp of the majors and could debut as soon as this season. His defense was considered to be major league caliber when he was drafted, as he was viewed as a future Gold Glove caliber player.
Questions did persist with Allen, particularly with his bat. However, he has seemingly answered those questions with strong showings in A-ball and in Double-A last year. While he struggled at Triple-A, he is expected to return to that level in the coming year, continuing his development with the bat while waiting for his chance.
Oakland A’s looking for shortstops despite having solid prospect
Despite Allen’s progress and being on the cusp of the majors, the A’s are reportedly looking to add to the position. Noelvi Marte is reportedly at the top of their list with any trade with the Mariners. The Yankees reported refusal to move either Anthony Volpe or Oswald Peraza, their two top shortstop prospects, seemingly takes them out of any possible trade for Matt Olson.
This quest makes one wonder how the A’s view Allen. It is possible they are looking at him as a glove first utility option, having given him time at second base during the 2021 season. Or they could think of him as a shortstop with the other prospects changing positions. Second base is not exactly a strength in the A’s system.
The problem is that these other players have not seen much action outside of short either. Allen is a far better defensive player, which would make moving him a waste of his greatest tools. However, he will need to produce with more than just his glove, something that the A’s may not believe he can do.
The Oakland A’s are seemingly on the hunt for shortstops despite Nick Allen’s presence. That may speak volumes for how they view Allen going forward.