Cristian Pache did not exactly get a warm reaction from Oakland A’s fans when he was acquired. He was a part of the Matt Olson deal, a talented defensive outfielder who had struggled at the major league level. While Pache had once been a top prospect, it was fair to wonder if he would ever become the player he had been expected to develop into.
Then the season began. Pache had an opportunity to play every day due to the rest of Ramon Laureano’s PED suspension. He has taken that opportunity and run with it, quickly changing the feelings of A’s fans with his performance.
Cristian Pache quickly winning over Oakland A’s fans
One cannot turn on an A’s game without seeing Pache do something to make an impact. His excellent defense has been on display as he has been flying around the outfield, robbing homers and taking away extra bases. He has made an impact with the bat as well, his ninth inning homer on Saturday proving to be the game winning blast as the A’s continued their surprising start.
It is fair to wonder how long this will continue. Pache is not guaranteed a role in the lineup when Laureano returns. However, if he keeps making plays defensively while swinging a solid bat, he will get his chances.
That is especially the case given the rest of the A’s outfield. Stephen Piscotty is sidelined yet again and is not guaranteed a role even when he is healthy. Chad Pinder is best served as a utility option. There are going to be opportunities.
Maybe this will all come to an end. Maybe Pache will no longer be able to outrun a speeding bullet or leap tall buildings with a single bound. BatMan will stop sleeping in Pache pajamas. But even if that happens, Pache is showing that he can be a solid major league option. All he needed was that chance.
Cristian Pache is showing flashes of the potential that made him a top prospect for years. He is also winning over the hearts of Oakland A’s fans.