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

After an off year in 2025, the Braves are once again dominating, thanks in large part to excellent performances by the starting staff. Plus: 3B in MIA; IL updates at NYM; Crawford in PHI; Cavalli in WAS; more.
May 26 2026 10:10am
As Caleb Durbin sports the worst OPS in baseball, his playing time is showing its first signs of diminishing. Plus, Bednar showing warts as NYY's closer, and more.
May 26 2026 3:05am
In addition to the Fernando Tatis conundrum, we take a close look at the playing time outlook for recent Giants' call-ups and turn our attention to a surprisingly impactful Arizona veteran SP.
May 23 2026 3:07am
A new injury on top of Kyle Teel's previous one may open up new opportunity for a White Sox catcher. Plus, paths to more playing time for Kyle Manzardo, injury returns in DET, SP depth in KC, and the struggles of Brooks Lee in MIN.
May 21 2026 3:05am

Tools