Lawrence Butler considered top performer in AFL All Star Game

The Lawrence Butler breakout is continuing in the Arizona Fall League.

Butler had been sent to Arizona to get more game action after appearing in just 84 games between High-A and his rehab assignment in the Arizona Complex League. At the same time, the A’s were hoping that he would work on his plate discipline and contact skills, allowing Butler to tap into his immense potential.

Lawrence Butler continued strong showing in AFL All Star Game

So far, those hopes have gone according to plan. Butler had a strong .240/.394/.460 batting line in his 66 plate appearances, hitting two homers and three doubles while stealing five bases. Even more importantly, he had drawn 14 walks while striking out 14 times. It was not a surprise when he was one of the A’s players named to the AFL All Star Game, becoming the only one that would participate in the contest.

Butler entered the game in the sixth inning as a substitute in left field. He made his presence felt with the bat in the seventh, hitting one of the eight doubles in the contest, before striking out in the ninth inning. That 1-2 performance was enough for Butler to be named as one of the 12 top performers of the game.

This just continues what has been a breakout showing for Butler in the AFL. He is starting to show the potential that the A’s envisioned, a potential all around player that they could slot into the lineup at first or any of the three outfield positions. Now it is a matter of showing that those improvements next season and as he continues to move up the ladder.

Lawrence Butler showed why the Oakland A’s have high hopes for him during his time in the Arizona Fall League. Now he needs to continue that breakout performance.