In 2018, the Yankees acquired pitcher Sonny Gray in a trade that sent outfielder Dustin Fowler, infielder Jorge Mateo, and right-handed pitcher James Caprierian to Oakland. Fowler, despite recovering from a severe injury, was the centerpiece of this deal and was expected to play a big role for Oakland after the season. Known as one of New York’s top prospects, many expected Fowler to shine in Oakland’s outfield with his rare mix of speed and power.
However, Oakland’s Triple-A affiliate in Nashville caught fire during that time. Fowler struggled there despite performing well in 64 games with a batting line of .297/.380/.524, 14 home runs, and a .905 OPS. On August 2, Oakland decided to option Fowler and brought up Ramon Laureano. Just a day later, Laureano delivered his first major league hit, a walk-off single in the 13th inning against the Tigers. Soon after, he made a spectacular throw against the Angels in Anaheim, robbing a likely double by throwing out Eric Young Jr. from center field with a 321-foot strike.
Laureano never went back to the minors. A’s manager Bob Melvin praised Laureano for his aggressive and determined style, saying that Laureano took every opportunity and made the most of it.
Seven years have passed since Laureano replaced Fowler and made a name for himself. Now 31, Laureano has faced many challenges including injuries and a PED suspension in 2021. Yet, his comeback spirit, not just talent, has driven his success and helped the San Diego Padres rise to first place in the National League West.
Laureano, acquired from Baltimore, feels revitalized playing with the Padres. He noted the strong team unity and hard work, which he believes are the keys to becoming a championship contender. The Padres, who were nine games behind the on July 4, are now gearing up for an important three-game series at Stadium.
While returning to his aggressive style from earlier years, Laureano remains focused on simply doing his job rather than getting caught up in division rivalries. After years of struggling with a sports hernia and adjusting his playing stance, he’s back to performing at his best.
Additional MLB notes include Laureano crediting his travel ball coach Lou Maietta as pivotal to his career, the Guardian’s potential wildcard push, and struggles from players like Mookie Betts and Cubs All-Star Pete Crow Armstrong.
Fan Take: Ramon Laureano’s story is a testament to resilience and determination, showing fans that success in baseball is often about grit as much as talent. This highlights the unpredictable and inspiring nature of the sport, reminding us why baseball remains a beloved game full of second chances and comebacks.
