Oscar Salazar

Organization Prospect Rankings

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  Ranked Oakland Athletics #28 prospect in 2002
  A free-spirited, happy-go-lucky player, Salazar is a favorite among teammates and coaches despite being an atypical A's player. He's a free-swinging, undisciplined hitter who doesn't walk often enough to suit the organization. Despite chasing pitches out of the strike zone, he has hit for some average and power during his tenure in the system. But in his second year in Double-A, his average dropped 33 points. Both Esteban German and Mark Ellis moved ahead of Salazar on the middle-infield depth chart last season. He can play second base, shortstop and third base, but has proven most adept at second. With his decent hands and a good arm, he can be a competent defender. If German or Ellis makes the majors, Salazar could get a shot at Triple-A this year. If not, he will most likely return for his third season at Midland.
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  Ranked Oakland Athletics #16 prospect in 2001
  The happy-go-lucky, ever-friendly Salazar is a throwback to many players of the 1960s. He's an undisciplined hitter who swings at many bad pitches, yet still hits for a high average. His approach clashes with the organization's philosophies on pitch selection and walks, but he has succeeded in his own way. Salazar is a loose player. His ebullient personality makes him a favorite of teammates and coaches. He's most competent at second base and can function adequately at shortstop and third. With decent hands and a good arm, he has the tools to become a legitimate middle infielder. After adding him to the 40-man roster, Oakland will keep moving him up the ladder to see if he can produce enough to get to the majors.