The Oakland Athletics have made a move that could impact their future at first base. They have outrighted Joey Meneses, a 34-year-old first baseman, after a brief stint in the MLB. Meneses, who signed a minor league deal in the offseason, was designated for assignment and can now either accept a minor league assignment or become a free agent. This decision comes as the Athletics are also dealing with an injury to their first baseman, Nick Kurtz, who is expected to return soon.
Meneses' journey in the MLB has been a rollercoaster. He made his debut in 2022 with the Washington Nationals, having a breakout season as a rookie. However, his performance took a dip in the following years, and he was eventually released. He then signed with the New York Mets in 2025, but only played in Triple-A. This season, he's been on a roll in Triple-A with the Athletics, showcasing his skills with 12 home runs and a .346/.396/.546 slash line across 331 plate appearances. Despite not being a power hitter, Meneses has excellent contact skills and a history of hitting for high averages in the minors.
The Athletics are now giving a rookie infielder, Tommy White, a chance at first base. With Kurtz's injury, the team is likely assessing their options and considering the potential impact of Meneses' decision. The organization might be looking to develop a young player like White while also keeping an eye on the free agent market or exploring other trade possibilities.
This move raises questions about the Athletics' strategy and their approach to player development. Are they prioritizing youth development over immediate results? Or are they simply managing their roster in response to injuries and performance? The future of Meneses and the team's first base situation remains to be seen, but it's clear that the Athletics are making some interesting decisions that could shape their season and beyond.
