MESA, Ariz. - One year ago, the A’s spring camp was at overflow capacity. With 72 players reporting to Hohokam Stadium, extra lockers were installed in the middle of the clubhouse.
This spring, Oakland’s camp is a much more exclusive affair. The team invited 59 players, wanting the big-league staff to get a more focused look at some top minor-leaguers. There will be more innings for up-and-coming relievers such as Nolan Blackwood, Lou Trevino and Kyle Finnegan and more at-bats for young infielders such as Sheldon Neuse and Jorge Mateo.
“It allows us to get a better look at some of these guys we haven’t seen, especially early on,” manager Bob Melvin said.