The Oakland A’s lineup is an unmitigated disaster. They rank last or next to last in virtually every offensive category in the American League, their lineup incapable of hitting for power, getting on base, or doing much of anything. It is understandable that the A’s would look for help anywhere they possibly could.
And yet, their best prospect has not been mentioned as a candidate for the majors just yet. Shea Langeliers has seemingly nothing left to prove in Triple-A and should be in the majors at any moment. The problem is that, with Sean Murphy on the roster, there is no room for him in the lineup aside from a designated hitter role.
Shea Langeliers time with Oakland A’s could come soon
Murphy’s presence may not matter much longer. Despite having years of team control left, he is expected to be on the trade block as teams are looking for long term answers behind the plate. With his Gold Glove defense and powerful bat, Murphy could bring back a solid return for a team desperately needing to improve its system.
A trade would also open up a spot for Langeliers. The A’s prospect has a stellar .870 OPS with 16 homers and 13 doubles in Las Vegas, numbers that are certain to get a great deal of attention. While the Pacific Coast League is an offensive haven, Langeliers’ performance has built on a breakout 2021 campaign that drastically improved his stock.
Such a move would give Langeliers an opportunity, although it would come at the expense of one of the few productive bats in the A’s lineup. Murphy is one of two players on the roster with an OPS+ over 100 thus far in 2022. However, Langeliers is the future of the position, and with his performance, that future may be a lot closer than expected.
It is not yet time for Shea Langeliers with the Oakland A’s. However, his time could be just a few short weeks away with the trade deadline.