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

By Sean Sears

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)
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) /
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MESA, ARIZONA – MARCH 05: Jesus Luzardo #44 of the Oakland Athletics delivers a pitch during the spring training game against the Texas Rangers at HoHoKam Stadium on March 05, 2019 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images)
MESA, ARIZONA – MARCH 05: Jesus Luzardo #44 of the Oakland Athletics delivers a pitch during the spring training game against the Texas Rangers at HoHoKam Stadium on March 05, 2019 in Mesa, Arizona. (Photo by Jennifer Stewart/Getty Images) /

1. Jesus Luzardo, LHP

Jesus Luzardo might have very well made the A’s Opening Day roster had he not been shut down in spring training due to a left shoulder strain. He has yet to start throwing yet, but has progressed faster than Oakland’s training staff was expecting. Manager Bob Melvin said they’ll stick to his timetable to return which likely puts Luzardo’s big league debut in June, should he be called upon.

With his electric high-90’s fastball that sinks and a plus change-up and curveball, Luzardo is easily the best lefty in the minors when healthy. The prize in the A’s deal with the Nationals to send relievers Sean Doolittle and Ryan Madson, Luzardo could very well end up the ace of this staff by the end of 2019 assuming he’s healthy and doesn’t have any setbacks.

Best MLB player on each team in 2019. dark. Next

At 21 years old, Luzardo, paired with Sean Manaea and possibly A.J. Puk later this season, could make the Athletics go from one of the better teams in the league to the most complete team, if all three of those arms can stay healthy and contribute in some way during the 2019 season. Oakland is already good, but imagine facing this super-slugger lineup combined with some young-guns who can miss bats. Oakland has the potential to be scary-good.

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