2017 Acquisition: Nick Allen, SS
Birthday (age on opening day 2018): 10/8/1998 (19)
2017 teams/levels played for: Arizona Rookie League Athletics
2017 Stats: .254/.322/.326, 154 PA, 1 HR, 7 SB, 13/28 BB/K
Info: Allen was very highly regarded by nearly everyone pre-draft for his incredible glove work as a high school player, with many considering him as the best defensive shortstop in the entire draft.
The 5’9″ shortstop was drafted in the 3rd round by the Oakland Athletics, and while many felt he might be a difficult sign after the first day of the draft, he was willing to sign on with the A’s as he was able to stay near his native San Diego.
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Some worry about Allen’s ability to stick long term at shortstop, primarily due to his height, assuming he’ll need to move to second base. However, Allen has the instincts and range that he should be handle shortstop going forward, though he could be a premium defender at second base if he was moved.
Allen has more of a contact and speed approach offensively, but he does flash some power on top of the present gap power that he currently offers, and as he matures and develops his body physically, he could be a guy who hits 30+ doubles along with double digit home runs.
While his first exposure to pro pitching didn’t quite show Allen going gang busters offensively, he wasn’t overpowered, either, and those instincts on the field definitely held true.
Allen should be headed to full-season ball most likely to open 2018, though the Athletics may want to hold him in extended spring training before sending him to low-A.
Next: Parker retires due to injury
So that is the Oakland Athletics’ top 10 prospects for 2018. Who is too high? Too low? Missing entirely from the list? Comment below!!