MLB Network dropped their top 100 players list entering 2026, with four Athletics named following the team’s first season in West Sacramento.
Young stars Nick Kurtz and Jacob Wilson are each coming off sensational rookie seasons, so it’s no surprise that Kurtz found himself at No. 23 after snagging AL Rookie of the Year back in November. Meanwhile, the budding shortstop Wilson, who was the runner-up behind Kurtz, came in at No. 76.
With that duo at the forefront, the A’s quietly have built one of the best young lineups in the league. Kurtz’s 4-homer game in Houston and Wilson getting the starting nod for the 2025 All-Star Game were key moments that spotlighted the Athletics’ overall improvement.
Veteran power hitter Brent Rooker and catcher Shea Langeliers also have cemented themselves in the Athletics’ everyday starting lineup. Rooker’s durability was highlighted in 2025 after he played all 162 games, while Langeliers’ improvements on defense and pitch framing made him one of the best backstops in the American League. Ranking each at No. 91 and No. 92, respectively, seems understandable with a sub-.500 team record last year.
Rooker, Kurtz and Wilson were featured on Kings Pregame Live on Sunday and expressed their excitement to build on the Athletics’ 2025 season. Manager Mark Kotsay is eager to expand the roster’s young core following the MLB Winter Meetings.
The A’s front office has been moderately active so far during the 2025 offseason. The team added some infield depth by acquiring veteran Jeff McNeil in a trade with the New York Mets. However, free agent third baseman Nolan Arenado signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks, which will force the A’s to look at other options to seal the left side of the infield.
The A’s have some interesting options to look at in order to fully fill out the 2026 roster. The offensive foundation seems solid, so starting pitching and prospect development remain high priority. Until then, pitchers and catchers will report to spring training on Wednesday, Feb. 11.