Daulton Jefferies struggles have to be concerning for Oakland A’s
By David Hill
It is difficult to put much, if any, stock into spring training performances. Players are working to get back into game shape. Pitchers are rebuilding their endurance and working on different things. However, for the Oakland A’s, those spring performances could make a major difference.
That is especially the case with Daulton Jefferies. He is one of the candidates for the fifth spot in the A’s rotation, with the probability of a larger role when Sean Manaea and Frankie Montas are traded away.
Daulton Jefferies needs to get on track soon
Jefferies has not exactly done much to solidify his place with the A’s for the coming year. He has allowed eight runs on 11 hits in his 5.2 innings of work, striking out six. There are some encouraging signs outside of his strikeout totals, as he has yet to walk a batter.
He also showed some potential in the majors last season. He shrugged off his disastrous debut in 2020 to make five reasonable solid appearances in 2021. Jefferies allowed six runs on 11 hits and four walks over his 15 innings, striking out eight batters.
Although the season will begin on April 7, it is still relatively early in spring training. What is important at this point is that Jefferies feels healthy. As his career has been hampered by injuries during his time in the minors, having Jefferies ready to go can make a difference.
It is also fair to note that Jefferies will likely have two more appearances, at least, before spring training ends. As long as he feels healthy and his pitches are moving, that is what matters. But the A’s would like to see some results by the end of camp, especially if he is going to stake his claim to being their fifth starter.
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Daulton Jefferies has not lit spring training on fire in terms of results. The Oakland A’s would certainly like to see some production soon.