Buddy Reed survived the A's first cuts of spring training on Monday, and for good reason. The exciting outfielder continues to impress manager Bob Melvin, with his latest highlight coming Sunday when he robbed reigning AL MVP Jose Abreu of a home run.
“He’s done just about everything this camp,” Melvin said Sunday to reporters. “We saw his arm early on in camp. This is typically a tough field to play in spring training with the sun in your face. I don’t know if anybody else makes that play.”
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Reed has shown off his rocket arm this spring and flashed some power at the plate as well. He has received much more playing time this spring than expected while fully taking advantage of his opportunities. Reed is batting just .200 but has two homers and a .550 slugging percentage after 14 games.
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Defense always has been Reed's calling card with his bat behind his glove. He'll have to be more consistent at the plate, but it's clear he has Melvin's attention.
“He continues to impress and is having a great time with it,” Melvin said. “This is the best we’ve seen him playing and he’ll continue to get an opportunity.”