I don't know why I always end up making a Khris Davis custom in March. Something about the season feeling young and optimistic, and thinking Khris Davis can hit more than .247 in a season, or something like that.
The A's are in a very weird position in 2020. They spent the last two seasons as a Wild Card favorite being unceremoniously ejected by an AL East team. They didn't make many major changes from their 2019 team, and really are only figuring out positions made vacant by departures, like 2nd base (be it Franklin Barreto or Chad Pinder). But really, it's becoming a matter of how strong a hold the next generation of A's will have on the 2020 team. AJ Puk and Jesus Luzardo could have starting rotation roles if the inflated spring ERAs of Chris Bassitt and Sean Manaea scare management. Jorge Mateo and Franklin Barreto are looking at either the starting 2B position or a bench role. Skye Bolt is struggling to find a starting bid, and may be looking at more bench work.
Of course, the rise of these younger players is inevitable- 2020 looks to be the last season in contracts for Mike Fiers, Robbie Grossman, Marcus Semien, Mark Canha and Liam Hendriks. Room will be made for these people, and possibly even by the trade deadline if this team can't compete. And then it becomes a matter of whether or not they'll all be ready at once, once the team falls upon them. It's a very tricky situation, especially considering the team's already based upon a youth movement that's, for the most part, still pretty much there.
I do think the A's can finish above .500 this year, especially with Chapman, Olson and Semien still on, but considering the Angels and Rangers look to compete, and the Astros look to infuriate, it may be very, very difficult for them. A lot of things need to go right in order for this team to be good again, including a lot of these veterans who seem to be struggling this spring. It could happen, but it's not a certainty.
Coming Tomorrow- Some rodeo rider who signed with the Diamondbacks
I sure hope Khrush bounces back in 2020. As for the A's... if they aren't a .500 team, it'll be a disappointment of a season. Well... that's coming from an A's fan.
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