The Oakland Athletics have certainly been at the heart of the conversation this offseason, often surrounded by more controversy than cheers. From playing at a minor league ballpark to an ownership that raises eyebrows, the A’s have understandably faced their share of scrutiny.
As of now, the Athletics stand at 4-6, currently holding down fourth place in the AL West, just ahead of the Seattle Mariners. While it might be easy to dismiss this team given their rocky start, there are some genuine discussions to be had about their potential playoff aspirations as the season unfolds.
Looking ahead to a 2025 campaign full of possibilities, the A’s could find themselves in a prime position to chase the final wild card spot in the American League playoffs. With a roster blending talent and tenacity, there are several bright spots that suggest this team has what it takes to surprise skeptics.
Leading the charge among the position players are Brent Rooker and Lawrence Butler, whose performances have caught the eye early on. However, it’s on the mound where the Athletics have perhaps the most electrifying asset in 2024 All-Star closer, Mason Miller. He’s poised to make a significant impact as the season goes on.
The roster features a mix of promising young talents and seasoned veterans, crafting a cohesive unit that could elevate the team as the weeks progress. Players like Tyler Soderstrom and Shea Langeliers have shown promise at the plate, and one player particularly to watch is shortstop Jacob Wilson. He’s off to a sizzling start, boasting a .351 batting average along with 7 RBIs and two home runs. Starting on Opening Day at shortstop, Wilson has quickly made a case for himself as the future anchor of that position.
The Athletics also bolstered their pitching staff by signing veteran hurler Luis Severino, who is expected to step into the role of the team’s ace. The former Met inked a three-year, $67 million deal this offseason, and in his debut for the A’s, he showcased his potential by tossing six innings of shutout baseball, allowing just three hits. Despite the team falling short in that opening matchup, Severino’s performance provided a promising glimpse of what he can bring to the mound.
If the rest of the pitching staff can rise to the occasion and maintain consistent above-average performances, the A’s could indeed make noise in the AL West.
Speaking of the division, it’s worth noting that uncertainty reigns in the AL West at this early stage. The Texas Rangers are perched atop the standings, but below them, a number of teams—including the Angels—are still finding their footing, while the Mariners and Houston Astros are struggling to stay above .500. If the Rangers hit a rough patch, and the other teams start to heat up, this division could become wide open, creating opportunities for anyone daring enough to seize them.
Surprisingly, the Athletics have a legitimate shot at clinching a postseason berth, possibly as a wild card team. Given the strength of the AL East, teams in the West will need to keep pace with the records of those vying for the top positions there to secure a playoff bid.
While it may feel like a long shot, never underestimate the Athletics; with a little luck and all the right pieces falling into place, they might just make a run for October.
