The Oakland A’s had high hopes for Sean Murphy heading into the 2021 season. His hard hit and barrel rates from 2020 belied his relatively low batting average, while his strong on base skills and latent power made Murphy a perfect breakout candidate.
That has not happened. Murphy has produced a disappointing .213/.304/.404 batting line in his 424 plate appearances this season, hitting 16 homers and 23 doubles. While the power is solid, his plate discipline has gone backwards, as Murphy has just 39 walks while striking out 107 times.
Sean Murphy being passed over by Oakland A’s
The A’s were already concerned enough about Murphy’s performance to bring Yan Gomes in at the trade deadline.