#young-player-development

#young-player-development

The No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 draft has made good on that lofty slot since entering pro ball. After a solid cup of coffee at Single-A in his draft year, Wetherholt's performance exploded in 2025 when he slashed .306/.421/.510 across 109 games split between the Double-A and Triple-A level. That would be impressive for virtually any prospect, but it's especially so for Wetherholt, who is just 22 years old and adds strong infield defense and impressive baserunning to his well-rounded game.

The A's have been busy on the extension front in recent years. It appears there is a dual motivation at play, connected to their ongoing move from Oakland to Las Vegas, with a stop in West Sacramento in between. Reportedly, they wanted to increase their spending in order to avoid a grievance from the MLBPA, so as to not risk losing their revenue-sharing status during the move.

However, one of the most intriguing prospects that wasn't mentioned is Bilal Coulibaly. The former No. 9 overall pick has shown flashes in each of his first two seasons, but his main calling card his been his defensive versatility. As on oversized guard, the French product's length and size allow for him to defend nearly every position on the floor. In addition to his frame, the guard's defensive insticts and IQ allow for him to be a game changer on the defensive end.