MLB rumors: 5 prospects who can help A's in 2019

MLB rumors: 5 prospects who can help A’s in 2019

By Sean Sears | Apr 15, 2019

ANAHEIM, CA - SEPTEMBER 30: Franklin Barreto #1 of the Oakland Athletics jogs to first base on his two-run homerun to center tield during the sixth inning of the MLB game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Angel Stadium on September 30, 2018 in Anaheim, California. The Angels defeated the Athletics 5-4. (Photo by Victor Decolongon/Getty Images) /

3 of 6

MESA, ARIZONA – FEBRUARY 19: Pitcher James Kaprielian #75 of the Oakland Athletics poses for a portrait during photo day at HoHoKam Stadium on February 19, 2019 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

4. James Kaprielian, RHP

The 25-year-old starter was acquired from the Yankees in the 2017 Sonny Gray trade, but due to Tommy John surgery, James Kaprielian had his career derailed despite plenty of upside. While he doesn’t have a fastball with high velocity at the moment, he has touched 99 MPH a few times and his command and feel for his pitches makes him a desirable mid-rotation arm.

Kaprielian hasn’t pitched since 2016 and was looking to finally get some action in the A’s system but instead was sidelined with a lat strain in February. Month later, he should be close to making his A’s system debut.

When he was healthy, Kaprielian had a career 3.36 ERA with 62 strikeouts to just 15 walks in 56.1 IP. Before the injuries, during his time in the Yankees system, he was considered to be someone who would advance quickly. He was even rated the No. 4 Yankees prospect prior to the 2016 season. If Kaprielian can remain healthy, he could be an option if the A’s end up needing another arm this season.

Home/Oakland Athletics