Daniel Susac, the promising catching prospect for the Oakland Athletics, showcased his power by smashing two home runs in a single game. His standout moment came in the bottom of the 9th inning, where he launched a three-run homer to secure a dramatic walk-off victory against the Cincinnati Reds. The Athletics staged an impressive late-game rally, scoring six runs without reply in the final three innings.
Meanwhile, Mason Miller, a pitching prospect for the Athletics, encountered his first major struggle of the spring season. He conceded three runs on two hits and a walk, prompting his removal from the game after just two outs in the 6th inning. Michael Kelly allowed another run in the 6th, and Kyle Muller surrendered a run on two hits and a walk in the 7th, allowing the Reds to establish a commanding 6-2 lead going into the bottom of the 7th inning.
However, Susac continued to be a pivotal figure in the Athletics’ resurgence. He blasted a two-run homer in the bottom of the 7th, narrowing the deficit to 6-4. The Athletics added another run in the 8th inning courtesy of an RBI groundout by Jonny Butler.
Susac then capitalized on another opportunity in the 9th inning, coming up to bat with runners on first and second base. He connected with an Andrew Moore pitch, sending it soaring deep into left field to complete the remarkable comeback victory. It was a particularly significant achievement for Susac, considering he had yet to hit a home run throughout the spring, largely due to his limited playing time prior to this game.
Have a day, Daniel Susac. His second homer of the day is a walk-off three-run homer. A's win 8-6.
— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) March 22, 2024
Daniel Susac’s current stint with the Oakland Athletics has been limited, appearing in only six games with seven plate appearances and a solitary run scored. Consequently, he won’t be considered for the Athletics’ roster at the beginning of the season. Instead, either Carlos Perez or Kyle McCann is expected to serve as the backup to Shea Langeliers.
Despite Susac’s late promotion to Double-A Midland last year, where he gained valuable experience in 13 games above High-A level, his path to the majors remains uncertain. If circumstances align favorably, he might advance to Triple-A by the end of the season. However, it’s unlikely that he will make his major league debut before 2025.
On the pitching front, starter Alex Wood delivered a commendable performance, pitching three innings and conceding just one run on two hits, a walk, and four strikeouts. Wood is slated to start next Thursday night’s game against the Guardians and is not expected to pitch again during spring training.
Looking ahead, the Athletics will return to Hohokam Stadium tomorrow afternoon for a matchup against the Los Angeles Angels. Right-handed pitcher Ross Stripling is scheduled to take the mound against the Angels’ righty Matt Moore. The game is set to commence at 12:05 pm PST.
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