Oakland Athletics prospect Lawrence Butler was a pleasant surprise during Spring Training. The non-roster invitee looked good with his bat and has made some spectacular plays in the outfield. However, he was sent to the minors Sunday.
Ranked Prospect
Butler, a former sixth-round pick in the 2018 MLB quickly established himself as one of Oaklands’ top prospects. He is currently the number 17 prospect per MLB.com. Although he has only played only as far as the High A level and was limited to 84 games last season, he was still able to showcase his skills both offensively and defensively.
AZ Fall League
Oakland Athletics prospect Lawrence Butler played in the AZ Fall League last season and had 54 at-bats. And although he hit only .241, he fine-tuned his offensive approach and plate discipline in that time.
He played all three outfield spots, impressing coaches with his range and quickness. He played with passion and energy and showed he has tools that you expect to see at the big-league level.
Spring Training
Even though the statistics do not count in Spring Training, he had the chance to play with the big-league club and get some advice from Manager Mark Kotsay and the veteran Oakland players. As of this writing, he was hitting .571 and led the team in hits, total bases, and RBI.
As we know every player’s goal is to be in the big leagues. When you get a chance to watch and play in Spring Training games, go to practices, and work out, you will pick up some things to help be ready for that opportunity.
Butler has 20/20 Potential
Oakland Athletics prospect Lawrence Butler’s speed and power give him the potential to be a 20/20 player and he is becoming a solid defender in the corner outfield spots. He shows a good arm, speed, and athleticism that enables him to cover a lot of ground. He just needs to continue to work on improving his plate self-control.
Outlook for Oakland Athletics Prospect Lawrence Butler
Butler is one of the more exciting prospects Oakland has had in recent years, but the fans will have to wait. He is still considered a work in progress and will begin the season at Double-A Midland.
We know it is going to be a long season in Oakland. The team is expected to be one of the bottom teams in MLB. However, if Butler gets off to a great start in the minors he should be called up. With his fun personality and energetic play on the field, the fans are going to want to see him on the big-league roster, giving them someone to cheer for.
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