Jul 31, 2021; Anaheim, California, USA; Oakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy (12) hits a single against the Los Angeles Angels during the seventh inning at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
This was supposed to be the year that Sean Murphy took a major step forward. The Oakland A’s catcher had hit the ball well in 2020, but did not see the statistical results until later in the year. Nonetheless, his solid overall showing was enough to give plenty of hope for Murphy to take that next step in his development in 2021.