DIVISIONAL OUTLOOK: AL West—OAK 2B questions linger

Oakland Athletics

Many observers expected the 2B battle to play out over most of the season, but few anticipated the current situation entering August. Eric Sogard (2B, OAK) entered March as a likely roster cut, thanks to just 179 MLB career AB over three years and a .189 BA. But a combination of bb%, ct%, and h% upticks—7%, 86%, and 31% respectively—has helped Sogard outlast his struggling/injured competitors. A .287/.342/.388 line over his first 209 AB vs. RHPs and his ability to do "the little things" places Sogard at the top of the A's order on most nights.

Apart from sub-par power and average speed, Sogard's biggest issue is left-handed pitching, against whom he is batting .184. It's also one of the primary reasons OAK acquired

More From PT Tomorrow

As the 2026 season winds down, these players are just getting started
Sep 18 2026 3:05am
The AL West has some interesting options for some new playing time heading into 2027.
Sep 17 2026 3:03am
A slugging Yohandy Morales tries to pound out a spot for himself on the 2026 Nationals and beyond. Plus: SS in ATL; bench in PHI; Marsee in MIA; Tong at NYM; more.
Sep 15 2026 10:05am
This week, we point out an under-the-radar option in L.A., welcome starting pitchers back to Arizona and San Diego, check in on a favorite of ours in Colorado, and take a closer look at the Giants' starting rotation.
Sep 12 2026 3:05am
A look at how free agency, potential call-ups, and other roster decisions might impact lineups, rotations, and bullpens for all five teams next year.
Sep 10 2026 3:05am

Tools