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The Oakland Athletics had a bad season in 2015, with a 68-94 record and a last place finish in the AL West. The team is still not as talent-laden as other teams in the division, but a rebound can’t be ruled out in 2016.
If Oakland is to return to playoff contention this year, here are five players who have to stay healthy.
5. RP Sean Doolittle
Credit: Jason O. Watson Getty Images5. RP Sean Doolittle
A shoulder issue limited Doolittle to 12 appearances in 2015, with most coming late in the season. Oakland bolstered their bullpen depth with offseason signings, but Doolittle should retain the closer role and his health will be crucial.
4. C/1B Stephen Vogt
Credit: Norm Hall Getty Images4. C/1B Stephen Vogt
Vogt had a good season in 2015, finishing second on the team in home runs (18) and RBI (71), but he is working his way back from January elbow surgery. A full repeat offensively can't be expected, but Vogt has to stay in the lineup this year.
3. LF Khris Davis
Credit: Justin K. Aller Getty Images3. LF Khris Davis
Davis hit 27 home runs over 392 at-bats with the Milwaukee Brewers last year, and he'll bring some much-needed power to Oakland's lineup as he steps into left field.
2. RF Josh Reddick
Credit: Ronald Martinez Getty Images2. RF Josh Reddick
Reddick led Oakland in home runs (20), RBI (77) and slugging percentage (.449) in 2015, and he was one of three players with double-digit steals (10). The A's offense does not look as feeble as it did, but any long absence by Reddick would hurt.
1. SP Sonny Gray
Credit: Mitchell Layton Getty Images1. SP Sonny Gray
After posting a 2.73 ERA and topping 200 innings for the second straight season in 2015, Gray has become a staff ace. Back and hip issues that led to a poor finish last year should be behind him, so Gray needs to make 30-plus starts again in 2016.
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