A’s Call Up Top Prospect Carter

Rejoice, A’s fans. It’s the dawn of a new era, the Chris Carter era. On Monday, the A’s called-up their top prospect 1B/LF Carter, who made his debut against the Mariners in the A’s 1-3 loss. The A’s, who have been in a rebuilding mode for the past couple of seasons now, might finally be on their way to a much brighter future. Entering Monday, the A’s hit just 70 homers as a team (29th in MLB). Carter, who was the A’s top power-threat in the minors, left Triple-A Sacramento with 27 homers and 89 RBIs. Although his debut wasn’t anything to write home about (hitless in 3 at-bats), Carter figures to be an integral part of Oakland’s offense for years to come.

Carter, who spent time at 1B this season, has recently started playing in the OF. The A’s have a renewed level of confidence in current 1B Daric Barton, who has enjoyed a rather solid season at the plate (.272/.382/.392 with 5 home runs and 38 RBIs). Shoulder spasms kept him out of the lineup on Monday, but A’s manager, Bob Geren says that he hopes to have Barton back relatively soon. For the time being, the A’s hope that Carter can adjust to the new position in the outfield—a jump that many critics think Carter cannot make. Carter is not the most athletically gifted guy when it comes to defense, but he’s no Jeremy Giambi.

Well, A’s fans can now rejoice and join me in celebration of the beginning of a new era. Hopefully, the A’s other top prospect, Michael Taylor will be up shortly to join in on the celebration.