The Oakland Athletics have struggled defensively during the 2024 season, placing significant pressure on their overall performance. Rookie Max Muncy has become a central figure in the team’s efforts to turn things around, especially as the club urgently seeks improvements in the infield. Oakland’s defensive struggles are evident in their Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) ranking of -64, making them one of the poorest defensive teams in Major League Baseball, ahead of only the Philadelphia Phillies and Colorado Rockies. The team’s general manager, David Forst, has openly acknowledged the critical need to enhance defensive output as part of the club’s broader recovery strategy.
Impact of Defensive Woes on Team Performance
Despite some roster changes, the Athletics continue to face defensive difficulties, currently holding a -34 DRS. This weakness compounds problems with their pitching staff, which has endured a high earned run average (ERA) of 5.55. The combination of subpar defense and inconsistent pitching has led to a difficult cycle, where poor defensive plays have hampered pitchers, and ineffective pitching has often exposed the defense to greater pressure. For the Athletics to improve results, a definitive boost in defensive reliability is required, with young players like Max Muncy playing a crucial role in breaking this pattern of struggle.
Max Muncy’s Defensive Adjustment and Learning Curve
Max Muncy has been adapting while dividing his time between second and third base, two positions where he has limited major league experience. His Outs Above Average (OAA) statistics reveal challenges, with a -4 rating at second base and -2 at third base, highlighting an ongoing adjustment period. As a natural shortstop, Muncy’s exposure to these positions has been minimal—he logged fewer than 200 innings at each spot in the minor leagues. With more consistent playing time and experience at the major league level, Muncy possesses the potential to develop into a dependable defender, strengthening the Athletics’ infield over time.
Other Players’ Defensive Contributions and Challenges
Max Muncy is among several young players who have struggled defensively for Oakland this season. Miguel Andujar, Tyler Soderstrom, and JJ Bleday have likewise posted negative OAA marks, contributing to the team’s overall defensive issues. While Andujar has proven reliable with his bat, his defensive inconsistencies raise questions about balancing offensive and defensive value. On the brighter side, outfielder Denzel Clarke has stood out defensively, earning a +8 OAA rating in center field, and utility player Max Schuemann has provided positive contributions with a +5 OAA. Lawrence Butler also adds value with a modest +1 rating, underscoring the need for the team’s young, developing roster to improve collectively on defense.
Future Outlook and the Importance of Defensive Growth
Looking forward to the 2026 season, the Athletics aim to build a competitive roster anchored by solid defense complemented by their offensive potential. Key young infielders, including Muncy, Jacob Wilson, and Zack Gelof—who is currently on a rehab assignment—are expected to be integral to this transformation. Gelof’s return could notably enhance the team’s defensive capabilities. Reaching league-average defensive performance would ease pressure on the pitching staff, potentially preventing the prolonged innings that have undermined Oakland’s success this year. Strategic emphasis on defensive improvement forms a cornerstone of the organization’s long-term vision.
Significance of Muncy’s Defensive Progress for the Athletics
Max Muncy’s progression from a defensive liability toward a reliable contributor mirrors the larger challenge the Oakland Athletics face as they rebuild. Addressing defensive weaknesses requires patience and sustained development, and Muncy’s evolution symbolizes the potential harbored within the team’s young core. If these players can refine their skills and strengthen their defensive consistency, the Athletics may transform into a competitive force within Major League Baseball. This process highlights the crucial balance between nurturing emerging talent and pursuing strategic growth in hopes of future success.