Oakland's biggest mystery in 2008 was rookie first baseman Daric Barton, who had hit at every level until last year and who had reached base in every game he played as a September call-up in 2007.
Barton had a dismal season, batting under .220 much of the way before finishing at .226. And while two other youngsters, outfielders Travis Buck and Carlos Gonzalez, were sent down when they struggled, Barton was left to sink or swim at the big-league level all season. So going into 2009, there are questions about how long the A's will stick with Barton, 23. He's projected as a good-average, high on-base-percentage player, but if he gets off to another slow start, it's entirely possible that the team will lose patience despite Barton's high profile. He's the only remaining player from the deal that sent Mark Mulder to St. Louis.
Oakland's offseason shopping hasn't been a ringing endorsement of Barton. The A's reportedly were about to open talks with free agent Jason Giambi, the former Oakland first baseman.
While Giambi is no longer a spry first baseman, he can still handle the position if needed, and the A's might take the drop-off on the defensive side should Barton falter offensively.
Plus, that would mean that Jack Cust could move from the outfield back to DH, which presumably would improve the outfield defense.
No matter what Oakland's winter additions, spring training will be important for Barton in terms of his confidence at the plate and the team's confidence in him. He has a lot to prove if he is to keep his job.
