Verdugo To Seventh, Olson To Second: Baldwin Gets The Nod For A's

David

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Post on Jun 22, 2025

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Verdugo to Seventh, Olson to Second: Baldwin Gets the Nod for A's Starting Lineup

Oakland, CA – The Oakland A's announced a significant shakeup to their starting lineup today, signaling a shift in managerial strategy under Mark Kotsay. The most notable change? Veteran infielder Jed Lowrie's absence opens the door for rookie Shea Langeliers, while key positional shifts see Alex Verdugo dropping to seventh and Matt Olson moving to second. But the biggest news? A.J. Baldwin gets the starting nod.

This surprising decision has sent ripples through the baseball world, leaving many analysts and fans questioning Kotsay's approach. While the A's have struggled this season, this lineup adjustment suggests a bold attempt to revitalize their offensive performance and inject some much-needed energy.

A Deep Dive into the Lineup Changes

The re-shuffled lineup presents several intriguing aspects:

• A.J. Baldwin's Ascension: The relatively unknown Baldwin's promotion to the starting lineup is the most significant development. His recent performances in Triple-A have evidently impressed the coaching staff, showcasing a potent combination of power and contact hitting. While lacking the star power of established players, Baldwin's potential for growth and contribution could be a game-changer for the struggling A's. This move is a gamble, but one reflecting Kotsay's willingness to explore unconventional strategies.

• Verdugo's Shift to Seventh: Moving Alex Verdugo, typically a high-order hitter, down to the seventh spot is unexpected. This could be a strategic move to protect him from pitchers focusing on the team's stronger hitters higher in the order. Or it could signal a lack of confidence in his current form. Only time will tell.

• Olson's Move to Second: Matt Olson's transition to second base is another eyebrow-raising decision. While versatile, he's primarily known for his first-base prowess. This positional change suggests a calculated risk to improve defensive flexibility and overall team dynamics, but also raises concerns about his performance at a less familiar position.

• Langeliers' Opportunity: With Jed Lowrie sidelined, Shea Langeliers gets his chance to shine. This young catcher has shown promise in his limited appearances and will now have an opportunity to prove his worth in a more consistent role. The pressure is on, but the opportunity is substantial.

Analyzing the Implications

These changes are more than just a simple reshuffle; they reflect a broader strategic shift within the A's organization. The team clearly aims for a more aggressive and unpredictable offensive approach. While the success of this strategy remains to be seen, the bold moves demonstrate a willingness to embrace change and experiment with different combinations. This could be a pivotal moment for the team's season, potentially igniting a resurgence or accelerating their struggles.

What to Watch For

The coming games will be crucial in evaluating the effectiveness of this lineup overhaul. A.J. Baldwin's performance will be under intense scrutiny, while the adaptation of Olson and Langeliers to their new roles will be equally important to observe. The A's faithful will be watching closely, hoping this bold move leads to improved results.

Are you excited about the A's new lineup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!