Locked On A's - Daily Podcast On The Athletics

Logan Davidson’s journey from a highly touted collegiate prospect to an underdog fighting for a roster spot with the Oakland A’s is a testament to resilience and perseverance. Drafted 29th overall in 2019, Davidson faced early struggles in the minors, including issues adjusting to wood bats and a lost development year due to COVID-19. Despite these setbacks, he has battled back, showing promise in 2023 with strong performances at Double-A and Triple-A. Now, in 2024, he’s off to an impressive start in Spring Training, hitting 3-for-6 with two loud doubles and proving he belongs in the conversation for a big-league opportunity. However, with a crowded infield and questions about his ability to handle MLB pitching, Davidson’s path to the Opening Day roster remains uncertain. As the A’s work through Spring Training, Davidson’s performance will be closely monitored. With top prospects like Jacob Wilson and Darell Hernaiz already in the mix for playing time, the competition is fierce. Still, Davidson’s switch-hitting power and defensive versatility make him a compelling option if he can maintain his momentum. The next few weeks will be crucial, and if he continues to produce, he could force the A’s front office to make a tough decision. Whether he secures a spot or not, Davidson’s journey embodies the grind of professional baseball—proving that sometimes, the underdog story is the most compelling one to watch.

Today on Locked on A’s, we review the A’s and Giants game yesterday as JP Sears throws two perfect innings and shines in the A’s 7-5 Victory. We cover Sears performance along with all stand-out A’s who contributed to the win. Pete Turner joins us to talk about A’s baseball and his outlook on the season. Pete and Booney debate Advanced Analytics in baseball, is it good or is it a detriment to the game?

On Today's Locked on A's, Last year's woes, the off-season concerns are becoming to be worries as the the A's have played their first three games in Spring Training. Zack Gelof's Strikeouts, the inexperience of the Infield, and the pitching staff base on balls need to be addressed.

Today on Locked on A's, we cover the opening weekend of Cactus League Play for the A's as they split a pair of games. Brady Basso and Lawrence Butler shined as Butler had a double and Homer and Basso pitched two perfect innings. Have you ever wondered where the baseball term "Can of Corn" originated? If you have not, we got you covered for a brand new episode of Locked on A's!

SPRING TRAINING PREVIEW SHOW WITH BOONEY AND KP AS THEY BREAKDOWN ALL THE POSITION BATTLES THIS SPRING.

The A’s move to Las Vegas is one of the most controversial topics in baseball, and Locked On A’s is diving deep into the latest developments with special guest Tony Cordasco, host of Locked On Vegas Golden Knights. As a longtime Las Vegas local and sports insider, Cordasco gives us an exclusive look at the stadium project—what’s working, what’s flawed, and whether the deal is truly as solid as it seems. From financing concerns to the impact on the Vegas community, he breaks down the highs and lows of the proposed ballpark and how it compares to other major sports venues in the city. But will the A’s stadium actually happen? Cordasco shares his final verdict on whether the project is destined for success or doomed to collapse under its own weight. He lays out what needs to go right for the stadium to break ground and what could derail the move entirely. If you want the inside scoop straight from a Vegas expert, this is the episode you don’t want to miss!

GAME CHANGER: A’s Secure the Future In this episode of Locked On A's, host Booney dives into the Oakland Athletics' decision to extend manager Mark Kotsay for three more years, solidifying his role through 2028 with a club option for 2029. Booney explains how this extension is more than just a contract renewal—it's a statement of confidence in Kotsay's leadership as the A's navigate a period of transition. With the team preparing for a temporary move to West Sacramento and an eventual shift to Las Vegas, Kotsay's steady hand will be crucial in guiding a young roster. The episode explores Kotsay’s impact on player development, his leadership style, and the reasons why he’s the right fit for the A’s during this pivotal time. Booney also takes a look at the A’s offseason moves, including the signing of veteran infielder Luis Urías to a one-year deal. With the A’s in the midst of rebuilding, Urías brings versatility and depth to the infield, giving manager Kotsay more flexibility for the 2024 season. Booney breaks down what Urías’ signing means for the team, his potential role, and the low-risk, high-reward nature of the move. This episode highlights how the A's are setting the stage for a competitive 2025 campaign while staying committed to long-term growth under Kotsay’s leadership.

Booney of Locked on A's and Sully talk about problems with the new Las Vegas stadium, specifically the parking. Let's just say the conversation got a little heated.

The A’s relocation saga has dominated discussions for months, but today, it’s time to put it to rest. In this episode, I reflect on how covering the drama surrounding John Fisher and Major League Baseball has shifted the focus away from what truly matters—baseball. I address the challenges of seeking honest dialogue, the dismissiveness from certain media figures, and the parallels between how A’s ownership treats fans and how some within the A’s community treat differing perspectives. With this chapter closed, it’s time to turn our attention back to the game we love. As Spring Training heats up, the A’s still have major roster questions, particularly at third base and the fifth starter spot. I spotlight two under-the-radar players who could seize those roles—pitching prospect Mason Barnett, whose strikeout ability and improved control make him a strong contender, and third baseman CJ Alexander, a power-hitting lefty looking to make an impact. With these position battles taking shape, the focus is back where it belongs—on the future of the A’s on the field.

The Oakland A’s relocation to Las Vegas has sparked one of the most passionate and divisive debates in sports today. In this episode, we break down the emotional, financial, and political forces that have shaped this saga, exploring how a once-proud franchise reached this breaking point. Joining the conversation is lifelong A’s fan Kevin Peters, who represents the heart and soul of the East Bay’s frustration, viewing the move as a betrayal of the community. On the other side, I present a different perspective—one that challenges the mainstream narrative and asks whether this relocation is truly as catastrophic as it seems. This isn’t just another conversation filled with outrage or resignation—it’s a raw, unfiltered debate that questions everything from ownership’s motives to the role of local government and even what it means to be loyal to a team. Sparks fly as we challenge each other’s viewpoints, forcing listeners to confront the complexities of the situation rather than settle for easy answers. Whether you’re mourning the A’s departure or trying to make sense of it all, this episode will push you to see both sides of the great divide.

The Oakland A’s relocation to Las Vegas has sparked one of the most passionate and divisive debates in sports today. In this episode, we break down the emotional, financial, and political forces that have shaped this saga, exploring how a once-proud franchise reached this breaking point. Joining the conversation is lifelong A’s fan Kevin Peters, who represents the heart and soul of the East Bay’s frustration, viewing the move as a betrayal of the community. On the other side, I present a different perspective—one that challenges the mainstream narrative and asks whether this relocation is truly as catastrophic as it seems. This isn’t just another conversation filled with outrage or resignation—it’s a raw, unfiltered debate that questions everything from ownership’s motives to the role of local government and even what it means to be loyal to a team. Sparks fly as we challenge each other’s viewpoints, forcing listeners to confront the complexities of the situation rather than settle for easy answers. Whether you’re mourning the A’s departure or trying to make sense of it all, this episode will push you to see both sides of the great divide.

In this episode of Locked On A’s, we’re joined by Bill Moriarty, the Editor-in-Chief of A’s Farm, to break down the Oakland A’s top ten prospects. We go in-depth on the rising stars in the organization, discussing their strengths, potential impact at the big-league level, and what fans can expect from them in 2024 and beyond. From high-upside pitchers to dynamic young hitters, we analyze how these prospects fit into the A’s long-term plans and which players might make an impact sooner rather than later. Bill shares his insights on standout performances, developmental progress, and which prospects have the highest ceilings. We also explore underrated players who could climb the rankings and the overall state of the A’s farm system. Whether you’re a die-hard prospect watcher or just getting into the farm system, this episode is packed with valuable information on the future of the franchise.

John Fisher’s plan to fund his portion of the Las Vegas stadium has sparked heated debate, with many assuming he’ll need to liquidate assets and take a massive tax hit. However, as discussed in this episode of Locked On A’s, billionaires like Fisher have financial strategies that make such assumptions laughable. Instead of selling stocks or assets, Fisher will likely use a Securities-Backed Line of Credit (SBLOC)—a loan against his investment portfolio. This method allows him to access hundreds of millions without triggering taxable events, keeping his investments intact while securing the necessary funds. Similar strategies have been used by sports owners and billionaires like Elon Musk, proving that Fisher’s financing plan is just standard billionaire playbook tactics. Later in the episode, we shift focus to the A’s temporary home at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento and how it will play compared to the Oakland Coliseum. While many expect it to be a hitter’s paradise due to the Pacific Coast League’s reputation, the reality is more balanced. The park’s smaller foul territory and warm Sacramento air will slightly favor hitters, but it won’t be a launching pad like Coors Field. The A’s front office acknowledges that pitching strategies may need to adjust, with more emphasis on ground balls. Overall, the park should provide a modest boost to offense while still requiring strong roster construction and in-game strategy to succeed.

The A’s move to Las Vegas is officially happening, but what’s the latest on their new stadium? In this episode of Locked On A’s, we break down all the key updates, including funding, land use permits, and the timeline for breaking ground. With the A’s set to play in a temporary home in Sacramento, we look at what still needs to happen before construction starts on their $1.75 billion ballpark on the Vegas Strip. From permitting delays to financial risks, we cover the potential roadblocks that could impact the move and what A’s fans should keep an eye on in the coming months. Later in the show, we shift gears to the A’s farm system and highlight some of the most exciting prospects invited to spring training. From Mason Barnett’s electric fastball to Chen Zhong-Ao Zhuang’s elite command, we dive into the arms that could shape the team’s future. Plus, we break down Jack Perkins’ breakout 2024 season and whether he’s on the fast track to the big leagues. Whether you’re excited about the next wave of talent or still processing the team’s relocation, this episode has something for every A’s fan.

On today’s episode of Locked On A’s, host Booney dives deep into the A’s future, starting with top prospect Jacob Wilson. With elite bat control, a steady glove, and a baseball pedigree, Wilson has the tools to be the franchise’s next cornerstone. But will he live up to the hype? Booney breaks down Wilson’s potential impact in 2025, from his contact-heavy approach at the plate to his defensive skills at shortstop. Plus, where does he fit in the lineup? Could he be the A’s answer at the top of the order, or will he start in the nine-hole to keep the lineup rolling? Then, the focus shifts to the A’s outfield of the future—Denzel Clarke, Henry Bolte, and Colby Thomas. Booney analyzes each player’s strengths, weaknesses, and what they need to do in 2025 to reach their ceilings. From Clarke’s raw athleticism to Bolte’s power-speed potential and Thomas’ slugging ability, the A’s may have a trio of future stars in the making. Plus, can the A’s actually win the AL West in 2025? Booney lays out the path to an improbable division title, pointing to their second-half success in 2024 as a sign of what’s possible.

Osvaldo Bido’s journey to the A’s has been anything but conventional. Once an overlooked arm in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ system, Bido struggled to find consistency at the major league level, posting a 5.86 ERA in limited action. However, after being picked up by the A’s, he’s found himself in a position to prove his doubters wrong. This episode dives into Bido’s pitching arsenal, his adjustments since joining the A’s, and whether his raw talent can translate into a reliable role in the rotation or bullpen. We break down his performances, analyzing key improvements in his fastball command, secondary pitches, and overall mechanics. Can the A’s unlock something the Pirates couldn’t? With insights from analysts, coaches, and even Bido himself, we explore what his ceiling could be and whether he has the potential to be a surprise contributor in 2025. Is he just another depth piece, or could the A’s have found a hidden gem in Bido?

The latest episode of Locked On A’s brings a dramatic conclusion to the ongoing saga of the Oakland A’s relocation, as host Booney takes a deep dive into the narratives surrounding the team’s exodus. He challenges the conventional wisdom that Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred failed Oakland, arguing instead that the real culprit is A’s owner John Fisher. With a mix of humor and frustration, Booney explores the bureaucratic red tape, financial standoffs, and political dysfunction that turned the Howard Terminal project into a never-ending nightmare. From backroom deals to absurd negotiations over infrastructure costs, this episode exposes the chaos that led to the A’s eventual departure for Las Vegas. But beyond the blame game, Booney reflects on the emotional weight of the A’s departure and how the conversation has become too heated to the point of losing sight of what baseball should be—fun. He admits to getting caught up in the anger himself and reminds fans that, at the end of the day, it's still just a game. With a final take that may surprise listeners, he offers a fresh perspective on what the A’s move means for Oakland, the fanbase, and the future of baseball in the Bay Area. Tune in for a mix of hard-hitting analysis, sharp humor, and a reality check on the A’s relocation story.

In this episode of Locked On A’s, Booney breaks down the often-overlooked complexities of the Oakland A’s stadium saga, focusing on the Lew Wolff ownership years. While the mainstream narrative paints A’s ownership as solely responsible for the team’s departure, Booney dives into the documented history of failed ballpark proposals, political roadblocks, and economic challenges that made staying in Oakland nearly impossible. From the Coliseum North project to the Fremont and San Jose efforts, he unpacks why each attempt fell apart—often due to external factors beyond ownership’s control. Booney also challenges the idea that better ownership alone could have saved the A’s in Oakland, citing hard data on attendance, corporate backing, and public funding issues that put the city at a disadvantage compared to markets like San Jose. With the departures of the Raiders, Warriors, and now the A’s, he questions why history keeps repeating itself and whether Oakland’s leadership ever had a real path to keeping its teams. If you want the full story—not just the popular narrative—this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Today on Locked on A’s, we begin to shatter the narrative surrounding the A’s history beginning with Schott and Hoffman’s tenure as owners of the Oakland A’s has long been blamed for the team’s supposed downfall, but the real story is far more complex. While they did cut payroll and fail to re-sign stars like Jason Giambi, the widely accepted narrative ignores key facts. Oakland was struggling economically and had one of the highest crime rates in the country, making relocation an understandable consideration. Meanwhile, Giambi was never going to stay—he actively pursued a move to the Yankees, making the no-trade clause debate irrelevant. Despite the perception that the team became a laughingstock, Schott’s A’s actually posted the best winning percentage in franchise history and made four playoff appearances in nine years, nearly matching the success of the beloved Walter Haas era. Additionally, claims of a drastic attendance drop under Schott are misleading. The A’s averaged 21,145 fans per game during his ownership, an 11% decline from the Haas years but still significantly higher than attendance under previous owner Charlie Finley. While Schott’s personality and approach alienated fans, the idea that his ownership single-handedly ruined the franchise does not hold up to scrutiny. The narrative surrounding the A’s demise conveniently leaves out crucial details, creating an incomplete and distorted version of history.

In this episode, we interview Scott Brosius and his inspiring journey. A man who turned challenges into triumphs and setbacks into stepping stones. From his humble beginnings in Milwaukie, Oregon, to becoming a World Series hero with the New York Yankees, Scott’s story is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and unwavering dedication. We explore his rise through the ranks of Major League Baseball, his unforgettable moments on the biggest stage, and the invaluable lessons he learned along the way. Beyond his playing career, Scott’s passion for the game continued as he transitioned into coaching and leadership roles, impacting countless lives at Linfield University and beyond. His journey reminds us that true success isn’t just about trophies and accolades but about resilience, character, and inspiring others to reach their full potential. Tune in as we uncover the mindset and values that have defined Scott Brosius’s incredible career and legacy.