**Scottsdale, Ariz. ** - The Athletics are eagerly awaiting the return of Lawrence Butler to their starting lineup, a presence they've been missing through their first 19 Cactus League games.
Despite his absence from game action, Butler's preparation for the regular season is in full swing. According to manager Mark Kotsay, Butler might actually be leading the team in Spring Training at-bats, thanks to his participation in live batting practices and simulated games.
“He’s getting his work in, and he’s getting his at-bats,” Kotsay noted before the game against the D-backs at Salt River Fields. “Every hurdle he’s had to climb, he’s climbing.”
With over 30 live at-bats under his belt, Butler's progress is evident. On Tuesday, during a Minor League game with Triple-A Las Vegas, he drew four walks and smashed a grounder that clocked in at a blistering 110 mph off the bat, according to Trackman data.
“He’s almost killed a couple of pitchers with how hard he’s hitting the ball,” Kotsay remarked, highlighting Butler's power at the plate.
Butler's journey back involves recovering from offseason knee surgery, with baserunning being his final hurdle. As Minor League games commence, he's easing into running at a controlled pace.
“I’m sure he’ll be happy when he gets to hit and run down and touch the base as opposed to just watching it hit the outfield grass,” Kotsay said. The plan is to have Butler run without the pressure of full-speed sprints, allowing him to focus on recovery.
Despite facing only familiar pitchers in practice, Butler feels confident about his swing. “I feel great at the plate,” he shared.
“I’m glad they’re letting me get all these ABs to work on my approach. I might not run after I hit, but I’m still getting the reps needed for the regular season.”
While there's no set date for Butler's Cactus League debut, the A’s are eyeing next week, likely post the team's off-day. Until then, Butler is practicing patience and maximizing his Minor League reps.
“I want to play really bad,” Butler admitted. “It’s a process.
I have to trust the process and the training staff. I’ve been taking a lot of live at-bats, working every day to get better.”
Gelof Plays the Field
Zack Gelof, another key player, joined Butler on the Minor League side recently. After debuting as a designated hitter, he took his first defensive reps at second base with Triple-A Las Vegas.
The A’s are optimistic about Gelof's hitting, especially after his offseason adjustments to level his swing, reminiscent of his 2023 form when he posted a .267 average with an .841 OPS, 14 homers, and 20 doubles over 69 games.
With hopes of securing a spot on the Opening Day roster, Gelof will continue to get opportunities in both Cactus League and Minor League games, playing second base and outfield.
“Most important part is the health and getting him comfortable on the field,” Kotsay said. “He’s made changes in his swing, and it’s showing up in the data.
He’s in a good place with those adjustments. Now it’s about building confidence.”