It has not taken long for Cal Stevenson to get a look with the Oakland A’s. He was acquired as part of the Christian Bethancourt deal early in July, spending just 16 games in Las Vegas before he was given the call to the majors. However, as the A’s are looking for pieces for their future, it is not a surprise that Stevenson received the chance to make his major league debut.
There are questions as to what his future would be exactly. He has been viewed as a possible fourth outfielder, someone with plenty of speed who can get on base and make contact. He can play all three positions, furthering the idea that he may top out as a fourth outfielder, and certainly has the type of speed needed for center.
Oakland A’s seeing what Cal Stevenson can do over final weeks
While Stevenson made his Triple-A debut this season, it is difficult to argue that he needs more time in the minors. He has posted a solid .292/.407/.418 batting line in his 1410 minor league plate appearances, hitting 21 homers and 53 doubles while stealing 66 bases. He drew 231 walks while striking out just 219 times, showing his impressive plate discipline and ability to get on base.
Stevenson did not show all of his skills during his debut, but he did enough to prove his scouting report correct. He was 1-3 with a walk and a strikeout while dropping down a sacrifice. It may not have been a debut that dropped jaws and made one imagine a future Hall of Famer, but it was a solid showing.
He will continue to get plenty of opportunities over the next few weeks. The A’s need to find help in the outfield, even if they are not currently looking to move Ramon Laureano. They have precious few building blocks at the major league level, making Stevenson’s time in the majors all the more important.
Cal Stevenson is getting his chance with the Oakland A’s. Even if he is not going to be a key piece moving forward, he could be part of the future.