The Athletics drafted Tyler Soderstrom with the 26th overall pick during the 2020 MLB Draft. He was considered one of the top prospects for his abilities as a catcher and his ability to barrel baseballs.
After working his way through the minor leagues, he found himself on the Opening Day roster. However, he would not be used as a catcher. Instead, he was used as the team’s first baseman.
He would see another position change later in the season as he made the switch to left field. This move was made to accommodate the hard-hitting Nick Kurtz, who primarily plays first base.
For many, two position changes during a season would spell disaster, but not for Soderstrom. He was great in left field and is a finalist to win a Gold Glove Award.
Athletics’ Tyler Soderstrom eyeing first Gold Glove following position change
The club’s general manager, David Frost, was exceptionally pleased with what he saw from Soderstrom. He had nothing but great things to say about the young slugger, via MLB.com’s Martin Gallegos.
“The reality is, he turned himself into a really good left fielder in a short amount of time. Given a full offseason and Spring Training to work on it, I think he can be an outstanding defensive left fielder.”
Frost believes that a full offseason load, expecting to be in the outfield, could take Soderstrom’s game to a whole new level. While he was great this season, he could be much better next season.
The two other players who were also announced as finalists for the Gold Glove in left field for the AL include Cleveland Guardians’ slugger Steven Kwan and Texas Rangers’ Wyatt Langford.
If Soderstrom does not edge them out this year, there is a good chance he could be the top name next season. Kwan is looking to receive his fourth-straight Gold Glove, and it could be tough to toss him off that throne with what he did this season.
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