The Oakland Athletics have held a 13-12 record since the All-Star break, consistent with their overall season performance aside from a difficult 1-20 stretch in May and June. This progress has occurred even without two crucial players: top defensive outfielder Denzel Clarke and rookie All-Star Jacob Wilson. Both athletes are on the cusp of beginning rehab assignments, signaling their imminent return to the team.
Scheduled Rehab Starts for Wilson and Clarke
Manager Mark Kotsay confirmed that Clarke will start his rehab on Friday night with the Triple-A Las Vegas Aviators, while Wilson is set to join the rehab efforts starting Saturday, as announced by the same affiliate. These rehab assignments represent important steps toward their full recovery and reintegration into the Athletics’ roster.
Jacob Wilson’s Injury and Current Performance
Jacob Wilson, 23, has been sidelined for several weeks due to a fractured right forearm sustained from a pitch before the All-Star break. His performance took a notable dip heading into the break, going 3-for-38 (.079) in early post-break games, leading to his placement on the Injured List. Prior to this slump, Wilson had been batting impressively, hitting .335 with a .379 on-base percentage.
On the season, Wilson holds a .312 batting average with a .354 OBP overall. The Athletics are hopeful that upon his return, he will regain his pre-injury form and strengthen the lineup for the stretch run of the season.
Denzel Clarke’s Defensive Impact and Injury Status
Denzel Clarke, 25, made his major league debut on May 23 and quickly established himself as one of baseball’s top defenders. While Chicago’s Pete Crow-Armstrong leads with +19 Outs Above Average in 117 games, Clarke’s +12 rating in just 47 games places him near the league’s elite defenders. If healthy, Clarke would be a strong contender for the AL Gold Glove Award despite his midseason debut.
Offensively, Clarke’s overall statistics are modest with a .230 batting average and .274 OBP. However, he showed significant improvement in July, batting .298 with a .340 on-base across 14 games, including six doubles, two triples, and one home run. Clarke entered the Injured List on July 22 due to a right adductor strain, and if he returns hitting at that level, he could solidify the nine-hole spot and provide valuable support for the lineup.
Rehab Timeline and Team Travel Plans
The Athletics organization has not specified the number of minor league at-bats required for each player before a full return, but given the relatively short time missed, both Wilson and Clarke’s rehab periods are expected to be brief. Their quick progression back to the majors should have a swift impact on Oakland’s lineup.
Following an upcoming off-day on Monday, the Athletics will travel to Minnesota for a series against the Twins. They will then head to Seattle for further games, while their Triple-A affiliate, the Aviators, will be playing a six-game series in Albuquerque.
Significance of Their Return for Oakland’s Season
The imminent reunion of Jacob Wilson and Denzel Clarke with the Athletics is crucial for the team’s prospects. Both contribute significantly in different aspects—Wilson with his offensive consistency and Clarke with his defensive excellence and developing bat. Their returns will likely bolster Oakland’s efforts in the second half of the season, providing a stronger, more balanced lineup to pursue a playoff berth.