Austin Allen still had some use for the Oakland A’s. He was a solid depth option in Triple-A, someone that could be brought up to the majors in a pinch if need be. However, he was also buried on the depth chart, having been surpassed by several other catchers in the A’s pecking order.
It was not a surprise that the A’s had designated him for assignment when rosters were cut down to 26 players. After all, he was, at best, their fourth string catcher at this point, and with the emergence of Shea Langeliers, his grasp on that spot was tenuous. Likewise, the A’s are going to need those spots on the 40 man roster as they give various minor leaguers a chance.
Oakland A’s keeping solid catching depth with Austin Allen
Fortunately, that depth is still in place. Allen was not claimed while on waivers, slotting back in at Triple-A Las Vegas where he will remain in case of emergency.
Allen’s major league track record is not much to look at. He has posted a .195/.252/.288 batting line in his 127 major league plate appearances over four years, hitting five doubles and two homers while striking out 47 times. Clearly, he has not had much success.
At the same time, Allen does not have anything left to prove at Triple-A. He has a .323/.365/.623 batting line in 597 career plate appearances at the highest level of the minors, hitting 41 homers and 42 doubles. Add in his solid defense, and it is somewhat surprising that some team did not give him put in a claim to give him a chance.
The A’s certainly are not going to complain that other teams passed that opportunity by. They get to keep an intriguing talent in their system, at least for now, which continuing to have solid depth at a difficult position.
Austin Allen has cleared waivers and will remain in the Oakland A’s system. They are able to keep a valuable depth piece who could still turn everything around.