Seemingly always on the lookout for added infield depth, the New York Mets have acquired infielder Brandon Hicks from the Oakland Athletics for cash considerations. Hicks had been designated for assignment by the A’s a week ago (despite the organization’s perceived need at shortstop) so that the team could protect additional players from eligibility for the upcoming Rule 5 Draft.
Brandon Hicks has potential but has never put things together. After being acquired by the New York Mets, perhaps his time is near. (Image Credit: Joy R. Absalon-US PRESSWIRE)
Oakland had originally acquired Hicks last Spring, claiming him off of waivers from the Atlanta Braves in mid-March. Hicks would appear in 22 games for the A’s this past season, mostly coming in late June and July, hitting .172/.243/.391 (8 of his 11 hits went for extra bases) in 70 plate appearances. He’d see time at shortstop, second base, and first base. He’d spent most of the year, however, with Oakland’s Triple-A affiliate. Appearing in 90 games and seeing 383 plate appearances, he’d bat .244/.350/.506 in the minors, adding 18 HR and 61 RBI while playing exclusively up the middle of the infield.
Hicks may prove to be an interesting candidate for the Mets come Spring Training, as his defensive versatility and power potential make for an intriguing combination (Ben Zobrist, anyone?). He’s yet to put things together, however, after a stint with Oakland last season and two with the Braves over the two prior summers, but at 27 years of age there is still time for him to develop into a reliable Major Leaguer. He’s expected to compete in Spring Training for the team’s utility infielder role, pending additional acquisitions this winter.