Jordan Diaz considered Oakland A’s most improved prospect

The Oakland A’s had always held Jordan Diaz in high regard. That faith is starting to pay off.

MLB.com released their list of the most improved prospects of 2022 on Thursday. Diaz was the A’s selection, with MLB.com noting that he has performed well enough to be knocking on the door of the majors.

Jordan Diaz could be Oakland A’s answer at first

It is easy to understand why Diaz would earn that honor. He followed a breakout 2021 campaign with an even better performance in 2022. Diaz has posted a .324/.363/.508 batting line with 18 homers and 34 doubles in his 523 plate appearances between Double-A and Triple-A. While he has only drawn 27 walks, Diaz has also made a great deal of contact, striking out just 76 times.

This matches his scouting report. He has a knack for making contact and had been considered one of the best bat to ball prospects in the A’s system. His power is beginning to develop as he has gone from being a gap to gap hitter to one who can drive the ball to all fields. It is a package that gives hope that Diaz can be a building block.

The problem has been finding a place for him defensively. First base may be the answer as his lapses in concentration had nullified his strong arm at third. It is also a position that the A’s need to find a long term answer for, as Seth Brown may be needed as a building block in the outfield instead.

Diaz will likely start the 2023 season back at Triple-A. He has just 116 plate appearances at the level, and as the A’s are not going to contend any time soon, there is no reason to start his service time until they could get an extra year of team control. Likewise, the A’s will get an extended look at how he fares against the highest level of minor league competition, making certain that he is ready to establish himself in the majors.

Jordan Diaz has been named as the Oakland A’s most improved prospect for 2022. He is quickly becoming a potential building block.