Hold onto your hats, baseball fans, because the Oakland Athletics are no longer the underdogs of the MLB. ESPN has just ranked their lineup as one of the top six in the league, and it’s sending shockwaves through the sports world. But here’s where it gets controversial: can a team that’s historically been more about patience than power really compete with the heavy hitters? Let’s dive in.
As the Athletics kick off their second year in Sacramento, they’re riding high on the momentum of one of their most memorable seasons in recent history. And now, they’re finally getting the national attention they deserve. ESPN’s 2026 lineup rankings (https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/48017129/mlb-2026-ranking-baseball-best-lineups-dodgers-mets-mariners-braves-yankees-cubs) placed the A’s in the top 10—just shy of the top five—alongside powerhouse teams like the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees. But this isn’t just about making the list; it’s about the young talent driving this transformation.
Led by powerhouse first baseman Nick Kurtz and All-Star shortstop Jacob Wilson, the A’s lineup has been ranked sixth out of all 30 MLB teams by ESPN’s Bradford Doolittle. And this is the part most people miss: they’re outranking postseason favorites like the New York Yankees, Chicago Cubs, and Philadelphia Phillies. It’s a bold statement for a team that’s historically been more about strategy than sheer force.
The A’s have always been known for their methodical approach, but this lineup is anything but slow. Kurtz, the reigning AL Rookie of the Year, smashed 36 home runs and drove in 86 RBIs in 2025 after being called up in late April. At just 22 years old, he’s already a force to be reckoned with, batting .290 with a 1.002 OPS—second only to Aaron Judge in the American League. Pair him with Wilson, who just signed a seven-year, $70 million extension, and you’ve got a dynamic duo that’s here to stay.
But it doesn’t stop there. Left fielder Tyler Soderstrom, fresh off a 25-home run season, inked a seven-year, $86 million deal, while slugger Brent Rooker and outfielder Lawrence Butler are also locked in long-term. Here’s the controversial question: is this the start of a new era for the A’s, or are they still one piece away from true contention? Let’s not forget catcher Shea Langeliers, who blasted 31 home runs in 2025, rounding out a lineup that’s as intimidating as it is young.
The bottom of the order isn’t without its questions, though. Second baseman Jeff McNeil, acquired in an offseason trade with the Mets, is looking to bounce back after a few underwhelming seasons. A former National League batting champion, McNeil has hit just .253 over the past three years. Can he regain his form and solidify the lineup? Only time will tell.
Defensively, the A’s have Max Muncy at third base, whose potential is undeniable, and Denzel Clarke, whose elite defense makes him a staple in the lineup. The bench, featuring Austin Wynns, Andy Ibanez, Colby Thomas, and Carlos Cortes, adds depth to an already impressive roster.
As Spring Training kicks off in February and March, all eyes will be on the A’s to see if they can live up to the hype. Opening Day is set for March 27th against the Toronto Blue Jays, and expectations have never been higher. But here’s the real question: can this young, power-packed lineup sustain their success and challenge for a World Series title? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take!
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