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Zack Gelof looking to build on impressive debut

By David Hill

Jun 20, 2021; Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Virginia Cavaliers infielder Zack Gelof (18) throws out Tennessee Volunteers catcher Connor Pavolony (17) on a sacrifice bunt in the fifth inning at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 20, 2021; Omaha, Nebraska, USA; Virginia Cavaliers infielder Zack Gelof (18) throws out Tennessee Volunteers catcher Connor Pavolony (17) on a sacrifice bunt in the fifth inning at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Steven Branscombe-USA TODAY Sports /
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Zack Gelof had the type of professional debut that players dream of. The Oakland A’s second round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, he went from the Rookie Leagues to Triple-A in one year, getting a three game trial at the highest level of the minors. It is not a surprise that Gelof has emerged as one of the A’s top prospects, someone that could play a major part on the major league roster sooner rather than later.

It would be easy to sit back and be proud of those accomplishments. However, Gelof wants far more. He said that he has “big-time goals” and that, instead of being known as just a power hitter, he wants to be a complete player in the batter’s box.

Zack Gelof already starting to accomplish goals

Gelof showed the potential to be exactly that in 2021. He produced an impressive .333/.422/.565 batting line in his 161 plate appearances across three levels, hitting seven homers and nine doubles while stealing 13 bases. He showed an advanced approach at th plate, drawing 20 walks while striking out 38 times.

His time in Triple-A was impressive as well. While he only had 13 plate appearances, Gelof had six hits, including a double, while driving in six runs. Despite being just three months from playing in college, he was not overmatched by the advanced competition.

Chances are, he is going to start the 2022 season in High-A ball. As impressive as his performance last year may have been, Gelof is just 22 years old and is still working on improving at the plate. Those adjustments will be easier to make at the lower levels.

That does not mean that he will spend all season in High-A. Gelof’s debut made it possible that he could be a fast riser in the A’s system, someone who could see time in the majors in the near future. That is especially possible if the A’s fire sale takes place and Matt Chapman is dealt elsewhere.

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Zack Gelof is looking to become a more complete hitter this season. Based on his professional debut, the Oakland A’s prospect is exactly that.