Handing out hardware to the 2022 Oakland A’s

Sep 25, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a double against the New York Mets during the first inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 25, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a double against the New York Mets during the first inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
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Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Oakland A’s Most Disappointing Player – Cristian Pache

Some of the luster had fallen off of Cristian Pache over the years. There were questions as to whether or not he would hit enough to justify a spot in the lineup. Nonetheless, he was one of the centerpieces to the Matt Olson trade.

And it turned out that Pache was exactly what the critics said he would be. Despite getting plenty of chances, he just did not hit, posting a .166/.218/.241 batting line in his 260 plate appearances, hitting three homers and five doubles. Even his excellent defense could not save his place in the lineup.

The A’s needed to see far more from Pache this season. He will still get chances, but he will need to prove himself soon.

Oakland A’s Worst Player – Pache

The A’s certainly had plenty of candidates, but Pache was at a different level of mediocrity.

His 34 OPS+ was the worst of any player who received at least 200 plate appearances this season. If that is extended to 150 plate appearances, he is tied for the third worst mark, with only new teammate Ernie Clement and Jose Barrero struggling more at the plate. Everyone knew that Pache might be a work in progress offensively, but that level of futility is astounding.

And it stands out, even on a team that had plenty of struggling players. It also underscores the thought that, at best, Pache will be a backup outfielder, someone who gets a couple of starts a week at most but primarily exists as a late inning defensive replacement. After his showing this year, even that could be out of reach.

Which members of the Oakland A’s had memorable seasons, either positive or negative, in your minds? Let us know in the comments.

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