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Projecting the Oakland A’s Opening Day lineup

By David Hill

Sep 10, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a single during the second inning against the Texas Rangers at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 10, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a single during the second inning against the Texas Rangers at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports /

First Base – Billy McKinney

Billy McKinney is another recent minor league signing by the Oakland A’s. A formerly well regarded prospect, he has had flashes where he showed that potential. However, he has not had much of an opportunity despite his potential leading to his bouncing through eight different organizations since being drafted in 2013. Now that he is back in Oakland, it is possible that he finally gets his chance.

Second Base – Tony Kemp

It is entirely possible that Tony Kemp is the A’s best hitter in 2022. He had a breakout campaign in 2021, showing the potential to be more than just a platoon player. Kemp will get the opportunity to prove that his impressive showing last season was not a fluke, as he will be needed atop the A’s batting order.

Shortstop – Elvis Andrus

The A’s would love for this spot to be taken over by Nick Allen, but that would involve finding a taker for Elvis Andrus. There is a better chance of my winning PowerBall than that happening. Unless a miracle happens and some team is that desperate for a body at short, Andrus will be at the position on Opening Day.

Third Base – Kevin Smith

Another formerly well regarded prospect who had cracked the top 100 prospect lists in the past, Kevin Smith was blocked in Toronto. While there are questions as to whether or not he will hit enough to be more than a utility player at the major league level, he will get his chance in Oakland, likely keeping the seat warm for Zack Gelof.