Two Truths, One Lie – Athletics Edition

Oakland Athletics v Los Angeles Angels
Oakland Athletics v Los Angeles Angels / Michael Owens/GettyImages
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Lie #1: Shea Langeliers is the Catcher of the Future

The jewel of the Matt Olson trade with Atlanta, Shea Langeliers, was supposed to solidify the backstop position for the franchise. Scouts heralded him as a middle-of-the-order bat at a premium position.

One year in, he needs to live up to the hype. The slash line is anemic (.217/.289/.420), and the defense is tanking (14 WP, 4 ER). It would be one thing if he provided solid defense while the bat catches up (a la Cal Raleigh 2020-2022). Unfortunately, for the A's, the 25-year-old is a case of "He's all we got." The backups are pushing into their mid-thirties (Manny Pina, Carlos Perez). Their top prospect, Tyler Soderstrom, will likely arrive this year using a 60-power tool to push Langeliers into part-time duty.