Health could make a difference for Ramon Laureano in 2023
The Oakland A’s needed Ramon Laureano to take the next step forward in 2022.
It was easy to imagine that would happen. He had produced a solid 119 OPS+ over his first four seasons in the majors, hitting for some power and stealing bases. At 27 years old heading into the 2022 season, the expectation was that Laureano would be ready to take that next step forward.
Ramon Laureano was major disappointment for Oakland A’s in 2022
Instead, Laureano was unable to get himself on track last year. He missed the beginning part of the season due to the continuance of his PED suspension, making his debut on May 8. From there, he battled hand and oblique issues before finally being sidelined with a hip injury.
Those issues were reflected in his performance. Laureano produced a career worst .211/.287/.376 batting line in his 383 plate appearances, striking out 104 times. There were some positives, such as his 13 homers and 18 doubles, but he was never truly able to get into a rhythm at the plate.
Maybe that can change in 2023. Laureano will be able to have a normal offseason without having to miss time due to any suspensions. He can use that time to get healthy as well, heading into next year with a clean slate. That could make all the difference for Laureano to be the player that the A’s need him to be.
A revitalization would also make a major impact on the A’s going forward. While they are rebuilding, the expectation is that they will show some improvement next year. Getting Laureano back on track, and a viable piece atop the lineup once again, would go a long way to improving the lineup. And, if that happens, the A’s could trade him for more of their coveted prospects.
Next. Handing out the hardware for the 2022 A's. dark
Ramon Laureano was one of the biggest disappointments for the Oakland A’s in 2022. Hopefully, with a regular offseason, he can come back strong in 2023.