The Athletics Community Prospect List (CPL) is heating up, and the race for the top spots is fiercer than ever! But here's the twist: not everyone agrees on who deserves the coveted #9 spot. Steven Echavarria, a 20-year-old right-handed pitcher, has claimed it, but his journey hasn’t been without its bumps. As a high-school draftee, Echavarria is still raw, particularly in the control department, but his youth and potential have the A’s front office buzzing. Could he be the next big thing? Only time will tell. And this is the part most people miss: his ability to flash an impressive repertoire at such a young age is a huge indicator of his ceiling. But here’s a controversial take: is the organization placing too much faith in his potential, or is this the smart move for a player with such a high upside? Let us know in the comments!
Next up, Mason Barnett, the right-hander who came to the A’s as part of the Lucas Erceg trade, takes the next open nominee spot. Barnett had a rough year at Triple-A, but don’t count him out just yet. With a big league debut already under his belt—five starts in September—he’s a strong candidate to crack the A’s rotation in 2025. But here’s where it gets controversial: is Barnett a legitimate long-term starter, or is he better suited for a bullpen role? His four-pitch mix and bulldog mentality suggest the former, but his Triple-A numbers tell a different story. What do you think?
Now, let’s dive into the voting process. To make it easier for everyone, I’ll comment ‘NOMINATIONS,’ and you can reply with your picks. Remember, you can only vote for one player, and the one with the most votes wins the ranked spot. The remaining four move on to the next ballot, joined by a new nominee. If a prospect is traded, their name will be crossed out, and if a new player is acquired, a special vote will determine their ranking. Simple, right?
A’s Fans, Here’s Your Top Prospects List:
1. Leo De Vries, SS
2. Jamie Arnold, LHP
3. Gage Jump, LHP
4. Wei-En Lin, LHP
5. Braden Nett, RHP
6. Henry Bolte, OF
7. Johenssy Colome, SS
8. Edgar Montero, SS
9. Steven Echavarria, RHP
The voting continues, and the nominees are:
Tommy White, 3B
Expected Level: Double-A | Age: 22
White’s bat is his ticket to the big leagues. With legitimate right-handed power and a knack for making consistent contact, he’s more than just a home run hitter. However, his defensive limitations might push him to first base, where he could form a formidable duo with Nick Kurtz. But here’s the question: can his bat alone carry him to stardom?
Shotaro Morii, SS/RHP
Expected Level: Low-A | Age: 19
Morii is a true two-way talent. At the plate, his smooth left-handed swing and power potential stand out, while on the mound, his 95 mph fastball and nasty splitter are turning heads. The A’s are giving him every chance to succeed as a two-way player, but is this the best path for his development? Or should they focus on one aspect of his game?
Devin Taylor, OF
Expected Level: High-A | Age: 22
Taylor’s offensive prowess is undeniable. With plus hitting ability and power to all fields, he’s a force at the plate. However, his fringy defensive skills limit him to a corner outfield spot. Is his bat enough to make him a future star, or will his defensive limitations hold him back?
Mason Barnett, RHP
Expected Level: Triple-A/Majors | Age: 25
Barnett’s four-pitch mix and improved control make him a strong candidate for the A’s rotation. His big league debut showed promise, but his Triple-A numbers raise questions. Can he consistently perform at the highest level, or is he better suited for a different role?
Cole Miller, RHP
Expected Level: Single-A | Age: 20
Miller’s electric fastball and competitive spirit had the A’s excited for his debut. With a three-pitch mix and a towering 6-foot-6 frame, he has the potential to be a workhorse starter. But after an injury-delayed start, can he live up to the hype? And is his changeup enough to keep hitters off balance?
Programming Note: Each CPL vote runs for about 48 hours, so don’t wait—cast your vote now! And don’t forget to share your thoughts on the controversial points. Who do you think deserves the top spots? Let the debate begin!
