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Oakland A’s kick Luis Barrera to the curb

By David Hill

Feb 23, 2020; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Oakland Athletics right fielder Luis Barrera (79) makes the running catch for an out against the San Francisco Giants during a spring training game at HohoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 23, 2020; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Oakland Athletics right fielder Luis Barrera (79) makes the running catch for an out against the San Francisco Giants during a spring training game at HohoKam Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports /
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Luis Barrera has long been an interesting prospect for the Oakland A’s. There was a time when he was considered one of the better pieces in their system, a contact oriented player who had the potential to be a decent option in the second spot of the lineup. While his stock has fallen in recent years, Berrera still appeared to be a possible option as a fourth outfielder.

If that is the case, it will not happen in Oakland. The A’s have designated Berrera for assignment to clear a spot on the 40 man roster for the recently claimed Gabe Klobosits, a 6’8″ tall left handed reliever.

Oakland A’s make surprising move with Luis Barrera

With this move, the A’s have a week to trade or attempt to pass Barrera through waivers. Considering the general dearth of major league caliber center field options that are available, the A’s may still be able to get something for Barrera.

It is still a relatively surprising move given the status of the A’s roster. One would have expected Barrera to get a look as the organization attempts to find pieces for the future. Even if he did settle in as a fourth outfielder, his ability to make contact and play all three outfield spots would seemingly make him a valuable piece.

That also appeared to be the case after his solid performance in Triple-A last year. Berrera had posted a respectable .276/.348/.393 batting line in his 386 plate appearances, hitting 16 doubles and stealing ten bases. However, he also swung at nearly half of the pitches he saw, making his batting line and 10.1% walk rate completely unsustainable.

It is entirely possible that Barrera will find a role in the majors at some point. His skillset does seem to lend itself to a bench role if nothing else. If he ends up on another team in desperate need of major league talent, it is possible that he could get a chance to prove himself as a starter. However, it will not happen in Oakland.

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The Oakland A’s have designated Luis Barrera for assignment. His time in the majors may still come, but it will not be in Oakland.