Athletics Make Surprising Call-Up With Infielder

It seems like each of those guys has been a contributor this season, and the group is also missing Zack Gelof and Joshua Kuroda-Grauer due to injuries. Hopefully, both of them will be able to return soon.

Even though the infield has looked very strong, the A's have added yet another one to the mix before the series against Detroit.

Athletics Calling Up Jonathan Ornelas

The A's are making a move to call up Jonathan Ornelas, 26, who spent most of his 2026 campaign with the New York Yankees Triple-A affiliate, the Scranton Wilkes-Barre Railriders.

After posting a .299 batting average and an .842 OPS with nine home runs in 280 plate appearances, Ornelas opted out and signed with the A's. He'd report to Triple-A Las Vegas on July 24th, and since then, he's been fantastic for the Aviators.

Ornelas posted a .435 batting average with a 1.318 OPS and notably swiped a pair of bags and drove in seven runs in just six games with the Aviators. Now, the infielder will get the opportunity to prove that his bat is Major League-ready in Sacramento.

Ornelas Has a Tough Path to Playing Time

Because the A's have lots of depth in their infield, it will be difficult for Ornelas to find himself in the everyday lineup for the club. Obviously, his success in the minors should give him some looks, but all of the infield depth doesn't help him.

The team could deal Tommy White before the deadline, as his value is very high and his spot in the future A's infield is uncertain. This could help get rid of the surplus of infield talent, while also hopefully landing the A's some younger pitching.

Since Ornelas played shortstop in the minors, it will be interesting to see where he slots in the infield in his first start. Perhaps Jacob Wilson could earn a day off and let him play his natural position.

It's always a good thing to add strong bats to the mix, but the defensive alignment going forward will be interesting to see.