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Injuries only thing to slow Zack Gelof’s ascent

By David Hill |
AMARILLO, TEXAS - APRIL 08: Infielder Zack Gelof #18 of the Midland RockHounds high fives manager Bobby Crosby #7 after hitting a home run during the game against the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN Stadium on April 08, 2022 in Amarillo, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)
AMARILLO, TEXAS - APRIL 08: Infielder Zack Gelof #18 of the Midland RockHounds high fives manager Bobby Crosby #7 after hitting a home run during the game against the Amarillo Sod Poodles at HODGETOWN Stadium on April 08, 2022 in Amarillo, Texas. (Photo by John E. Moore III/Getty Images)

Zack Gelof had begun to establish himself as one of the top prospects in baseball. The Oakland A’s infielder had hit the ground running in his first taste of Double-A action this season, making a mid year promotion to Triple-A appear likely. It was even possible that Gelof could get his first look in the majors by the end of the year.

But that depended on Gelof staying healthy and continuing to produce. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, sidelining him indefinitely while slowing his ascent.

Zack Gelof hits bump in road to Oakland A’s

It did not take long for Gelof to establish himself as a part of the A’s future. Their second round pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, he saw time at three different levels last season, even getting a brief look at Triple-A. He more than held his own, producing a combined .333/.422/.565 batting line in his 161 plate appearances, hitting seven homers and nine doubles while stealing 13 bases.

He had done nothing to shake that confidence in his performance going forward. Gelof had gotten off to a torrid start at Double-A, and while he had cooled off prior to his injury, was still in the midst of a strong season. He had produced a .316/.372/.458 batting line in his 183 plate appearances, hitting ten doubles and four homers while stealing eight bases.

Gelof had been expanding his defensive versatility as well. Although he had strictly been a third baseman in 2021, he had received time at second and in center in Double-A, with most of his appearances coming at the keystone. His ability to slot into different position was only going to accelerate his timeline to the majors.

Fortunately, as this is his non-throwing shoulder, Gelof should be able to return at some point this year. Depending on how quickly he can return, it is possible that he will get another chance in Triple-A as well. However, his major league debut is likely going to have to wait until 2023.

dark. Next. Bride getting his chance

Zack Gelof appeared to be on the fast track to the Oakland A’s. A torn labrum in his non-throwing should have slowed his ascent for now.

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