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Oakland A’s add another candidate for the corner infield in David MacKinnon

By David Hill

Jul 16, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels first baseman David MacKinnon (39) catches a fly ball for an out hit by Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts (50) during the sixth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 16, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels first baseman David MacKinnon (39) catches a fly ball for an out hit by Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts (50) during the sixth inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Oakland A’s keep trying to find answers around the diamond. A total of 25 different players have received plate appearances for the A’s this year as they have desperately attempted to find major league quality players for now and into the future. For the most part, those attempts have been wildly unsuccessful.

But the A’s are going to keep trying. That has led to their most recent move, as Matt Kawahara of The San Francisco Chronicle reported that they have claimed David MacKinnon off of waivers. Wandisson Charles was designated for assignment in a corresponding move.

David MacKinnon could get chance with Oakland A’s

MacKinnon did not get much of a look with the Angels. He had just seven hits in 43 plate appearances, none of which went for extra bases, while drawing five walks and striking out 12 times. Those hits were timely as he drove in six runs.

However, he has a much better track record in the minors. The former 32nd round selection in the 2017 MLB Draft has a .294/.414/.466 batting line in his 1454 minor league plate appearances, hitting 35 homers and 86 doubles. He has also displayed an impressive approach at the plate, with 233 walks and just 268 strikeouts.

MacKinnon also has some defensive flexibility. While he was primarily a first baseman in the minors, he did spend time at third in college. That continued in the majors, as he had seven games at first and five at third for the Angels.

His minor league plate discipline and ability to play at either corner infield spot are certainly intriguing. For a team such as the A’s, they are also worth giving an opportunity. MacKinnon could end up being a part of the solution, even if it is in a bench role.

When a stolen base is more than a stolen base. dark. Next

The Oakland A’s have claimed David MacKinnon off of waivers from the Angels. He is the latest player to get a chance to prove himself.