Shea Langeliers has nothing really to prove in the minors at this point. The Oakland A’s top prospect has proven that his breakout campaign in 2021 was not a fluke, showing impressive power and the defensive capability that they had been hoping for. It is just a matter of time as to when he will get to the majors.
That time could be coming soon. According to Matt Kawahara of the San Francisco Chronicle, general manager David Forst said that he expects Langeliers will make his debut at some point this year.
Expect to see Shea Langeliers in Oakland A’s uniform this year
Forst went on, saying that he hopes to see Langeliers get some plate appearances and time at catcher for the A’s this season so that they can see what he can do at the major league level. While that call seemed likely come September, it could happen even sooner.
Langeliers’ performance in that time could have a major impact on the A’s future. Sean Murphy had been on the trade block prior to the deadline, with the Guardians and Red Sox showing interest. A power hitting Gold Glove caliber catcher with three years of team control left would have a great deal of value during the offseason if the A’s decide to move on.
Those final few weeks could be his audition for the starting job in 2023. If he can at least hold his own while showing some of that power and defensive acumen from the minors, the A’s have an easier decision when it comes to a potential Murphy trade. But it will all come down to how he does once he gets that call.
The Oakland A’s are planning on bringing Shea Langeliers to the majors this season. His performance could be a factor in their offseason.