PROSPECT: Lawrence Butler, OF, Oakland Athletics
ANALYSIS: The A's drafted Butler out of high school in Georgia in the sixth round of the 2018 draft. One of the youngest players in the 2018 draft, Butler struggled in his full-season debut in 2019 before losing the pandemic season.
He came out of the pandemic with adjustments to his swing that led to a .273/.367/.504 line with 19 home runs and 29 stolen bases across both A-ball levels in 2021. He was injured for portions of the 2022 season but had a strong showing in the Arizona Fall League, earning the Dernell Stenson Sportsmanship Award, a well-earned award for one of the most-liked players in the AFL.
Butler has continued his growth this season, drawing more walks and striking out less than he has previously while still offering both power and speed, slashing .285/.352/.465 with 10 home runs and 13 steals. Butler is also athletic enough to handle center with a strong arm that has already produced seven outfield assists already this year.
VERDICT: With the A's en route to a 100-loss season, space could be created at the deadline by moving nearly anyone of value with the big league club, so Butler could see some MLB run this season. Even if he doesn't, he will compete for a job next season and should be owned in all deep dynasties.
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