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Oakland A’s future is now with Shea Langeliers

By David Hill

Jul 16, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; American League Futures catcher Shea Langeliers (33) hits a solo home run in the fourth inning of the All Star-Futures Game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 16, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; American League Futures catcher Shea Langeliers (33) hits a solo home run in the fourth inning of the All Star-Futures Game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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It was a matter of time before Shea Langeliers was promoted to the Oakland A’s. After comments from the front office, and the trade rumors surrounding Sean Murphy, the expectation was that Langeliers would get a look at the major league level before the end of the 2022 season.

That time has come. The A’s announced that Langeliers and corner infielder David MacKinnon are being brought up to the majors. In exchange, Ramon Laureano is heading to the Injured List and Stephen Piscotty has been released.

Oakland A’s get glimpse of future with Shea Langeliers

Langeliers truly had nothing left to prove in the minors. He had followed his breakout 2021 campaign with a strong showing in Las Vegas, posting an excellent .283/.366/.510 batting line with 19 homers and 19 doubles in his 402 plate appearances.

Defensively, he should be able to stick behind the plate. His receiving ability has been considered average or better, and he has a strong arm to help control the running game. However, his intangibles, and ability to manage a game and work with a pitching staff, have drawn plenty of praise.

This promotion does cause a bit of a dilemma for manager Mark Kotsay. Murphy, even if he is likely to be traded this offseason, is their best player. He also has not spent time outside of catcher as a professional. It is likely that both Murphy and Langeliers will get time at first, and in Murphy’s case, could be a little boost to his trade value if he shows that he can handle the position.

In the end, the A’s will have approximately six weeks to evaluate Langeliers and determine if he is ready for a role in the majors. If that proves to be the case, trading Murphy becomes a lot more palatable.

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Shea Langeliers is getting his chance to prove himself at the major league level. The Oakland A’s top prospect is set to make his debut.