A’s Struggle with Fundamentals in Spring Training Ahead of 2026 Season

Poor fundamentals can be a frustrating aspect of baseball, especially when they are skills that all players have the potential to master. Despite this, many players and teams continue to struggle with the basics they have been taught since their earliest days in Little League. The fundamentals in question here go beyond simple instructions like “throw strikes” or “plant your feet properly before you throw.” While those are undoubtedly important, not every player can consistently execute the necessary motions and coordination required for success.

Take Max Muncy, for example. While there is a clear need for him to improve his throwing accuracy, one must consider that his physical abilities might limit him. The fundamentals that truly matter are the ones that every player possesses but not all have the discipline to execute repeatedly. Actions such as an outfielder throwing to the cutoff man, an infielder managing a trapped runner, or prioritizing getting one out before attempting to get two are all essential elements of the game that should be within the grasp of any big league player.

The Oakland Athletics are not alone in their struggles with sloppy fundamentals, but their performance in spring training has not been a shining example either. Mistakes have already surfaced, highlighting the importance of this period for players to learn and correct their errors. Muncy, for instance, took a conservative lead off second base, seemingly hesitant to tag up with one out if the ball was caught. This cautious approach resulted in him missing an opportunity to score from second on a ball that ricocheted off the right field wall—a situation that shouldn’t occur if he is appropriately positioned to advance two bases.

Additionally, the A’s pitchers have shown a recurring issue with holding base runners close to first base, which has made it difficult for catcher Shea Langeliers to effectively manage the situation. This was a significant concern during last year’s Cactus League and carried over into the regular season. The focus should not solely be on pickoffs; it’s crucial to prevent runners from taking large leads that could compromise the defense.

Despite these challenges, there is optimism surrounding the A’s defense this season. Denzel Clarke is expected to provide a strong presence in center field, showcasing both athleticism and fundamental skills. The addition of Jeff McNeil to the infield further bolsters the defense, while Tyler Soderstrom’s transition to the outfield has been promising. Nick Kurtz, benefiting from experience, aims to improve upon his previous numbers, and Jacob Wilson is anticipated to contribute more effectively if he can maintain his health.

However, the A’s offensive lineup poses its own set of vulnerabilities. While they may appear imposing, they lack speed and base-stealing threats, making it imperative to avoid giving away bases through poor decision-making—be it throwing to the wrong base or mishandling rundowns.

The A’s current record of 1-5 in spring training may not hold significant weight, just as the Colorado Rockies stand at 6-2 but could struggle to secure even 12 wins in April. What truly matters is observing how fundamentally sound the A’s appear as they approach Opening Day in less than a month. This focus on fundamentals could play a crucial role in determining the team’s fortunes in the upcoming 2026 season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.