Unveiling Tomorrow's Stars: The Athletics' Prospect Showcase
The Rise of Zane Taylor: A Sleeper's Journey to Prominence
Right-handed pitcher Zane Taylor has captivated the fanbase, emerging as a top prospect due to his impressive collegiate control and potential for rapid advancement. Despite a brief professional debut at the Triple-A level last season, the 23-year-old, a fifth-round pick, is expected to begin the upcoming season in Double-A, with a quick promotion anticipated if his progress continues as projected by scouts.
Kade Morris: A Strategic Acquisition Making Waves
Kade Morris, another right-handed pitcher, has proven to be a valuable asset for the Athletics following his acquisition from the Mets in a trade for Paul Blackburn. Morris showcased dominance at Double-A, earning a promotion to Triple-A. While he faced initial challenges at the higher level, the organization is committed to his development, envisioning a potential big-league call-up as early as this summer.
Understanding the Public Voting Process for Prospect Rankings
The community's involvement in ranking prospects is structured to ensure fairness and engagement. Participants are asked to vote for only one player per round, with the most-voted player securing a ranked spot. The process also includes mechanisms for nominating new players and adjusting rankings based on trades, ensuring dynamic and representative results.
Oakland Athletics' Current Top Prospects: A Comprehensive List
The latest rankings, determined by fan voting, showcase a diverse group of talent across various positions. This list includes promising players such as Leo De Vries (SS), Jamie Arnold (LHP), Gage Jump (LHP), Wei-En Lin (LHP), Braden Nett (RHP), Henry Bolte (OF), Johenssy Colome (SS), Edgar Montero (SS), Steven Echavarria (RHP), Devin Taylor (OF), Mason Barnett (RHP), Tommy White (3B), Henry Baez (RHP), and Zane Taylor (RHP), highlighting the depth of the Athletics' farm system.
Spotlight on Kade Morris: Pitching Prowess and Developmental Path
Kade Morris, an expected Triple-A player, demonstrated a 4.38 ERA across 28 starts in 2025, recording 128 strikeouts and 48 walks over 150 innings. His fastball reaches 95-96 mph, complemented by a developing mid-80s slider and improving changeup. Scouts see his competitive nature and athletic build as key strengths, with his long-term role potentially as a back-end starter.
Shotaro Morii: A Two-Way Talent with High Expectations
Shotaro Morii, a versatile player projected for Low-A, showcased a .258 batting average with 3 home runs and 27 RBIs in 188 plate appearances in 2025, alongside a fastball that touches 95 mph. Known for his smooth left-handed swing and raw power, Morii is seen as an advanced hitter. The Athletics plan to develop him as a two-way player, leveraging his strong arm and physical attributes.
Junior Perez: Power, Speed, and Patience in the Outfield
Outfielder Junior Perez, expected at Triple-A, posted a .231 batting average with 26 home runs, 87 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases in 2025. Described by Assistant GM Billy Owens as a "live-bodied specimen with high-caliber tools," Perez exhibits significant bat speed, patience, and real power. His development is viewed as a non-linear process requiring patience to unlock his considerable potential.
Gunnar Hoglund: The Comeback Story of a Promising Right-Hander
Gunnar Hoglund, with an anticipated role in Triple-A or the Majors, achieved a 2.43 ERA in 6 Triple-A starts and a 6.40 ERA in 6 Major League starts in 2025. Three years post-Tommy John surgery, his fastball velocity has rebounded to the low-90s, augmented by an improved slider and changeup. The organization is optimistic about his potential as a back-end rotation piece, particularly if he can refine a fourth pitch.
Cole Miller: A Young Right-Hander with Imposing Presence
Cole Miller, slated for Single-A, recorded a 1.90 ERA in 12 starts (15 appearances) in 2025, with 45 strikeouts and 11 walks over 52 innings. His electric fastball, which hit 96 mph in high school, along with a hard-breaking slider and developing changeup, makes him a compelling prospect. His 6-foot-6 frame and competitive spirit suggest a future as a workhorse starting pitcher, despite an injury-delayed professional debut.