Nick Allen rated as Oakland A’s best defensive prospect again

Nick Allen has received a great deal of attention for his defense. The Oakland A’s shortstop prospect has constantly been rated as one of the best defensive prospects in the game, a player who is expected to make a major impact with his glove.

Recently, Allen was named to his third consecutive MiLB preseason All Defensive Team, an honor of which he is quite deserving. That is not the only honor he has received, as he was once again named as the A’s top defensive prospect once more.

Nick Allen continues receiving praise for his defense

At this point, there is not much that can be said about Allen’s defense that has not already been said. His incredible instincts and strong arm allow him to make plays that few other shortstops can. Likewise, his impressive footwork around the bag will be an asset for years to come in Oakland.

The question has always been whether or not he will hit enough to maintain a starting job. His defense has essentially been major league ready since he was drafted out of high school although his bat was going to take time. The speed is there if he can make enough hard contact and spray the ball in the gaps.

Allen has been able to do just that thus far. While he stumbled in Triple-A, he has shown enough at the lower levels and Double-A where there is reason to hope. He is never going to hit for power, but should be able to spray the ball to all fields and use his speed for doubles and triples. That profile should allow Allen to be a solid piece at the bottom of the A’s lineup for years to come.

Nick Allen is continuing to receive accolades for his defense. It may be just a matter of time before those accolades come at the major league level.