Athletics’ Leo De Vries Turning Heads with Power and Potential

The Oakland Athletics have a potential superstar in their system and his name is Leo De Vries. The 19-year-ancient shortstop is quickly rising through the ranks, showcasing a rare combination of power and skill that has scouts and fans alike buzzing with anticipation. De Vries is currently considered one of the top prospects in baseball, with rankings varying from No. 4 to No. 12 overall by different outlets [1].

Dominating in Spring Training

De Vries has been making waves this spring, most recently with a dominant performance on Sunday, March 8, 2026, against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He hit two home runs, including a grand slam, in the Athletics’ 11-7 Cactus League victory [3]. Both home runs were hit with exit velocities exceeding 100 mph, demonstrating the impressive power he possesses [3]. According to MLB.com, these hits would have been home runs in all 30 MLB ballparks [1].

Acquired in a Key Trade

The Athletics acquired De Vries in a trade with the San Diego Padres, sending All-Star reliever Mason Miller to San Diego. The team clearly believes De Vries is a cornerstone player for their future, and General Manager David Forst has publicly expressed his excitement about the young shortstop’s potential. “I believe Leo De Vries has a chance to be a superstar,” Forst stated in August [3].

Rapid Ascent Through the Minors

De Vries’s progress has been remarkable. He reached Double-A at just 18 years old, a relatively uncommon feat in recent years [4]. He excelled at that level, further solidifying his status as a top prospect and accelerating his path toward the major leagues.

Brief Exit from Spring Game

De Vries briefly left a spring training game on Saturday, March 7, 2026, due to stomach issues and possible dehydration, but is expected to be okay [4]. He had gone 0-for-1 before being replaced by Joshua Kuroda-Grauer.

Quiet Confidence

Athletics manager Mark Kotsay has noted De Vries’s quiet confidence, stating that it’s hard not to have an aura when you’re rated as one of the best prospects in baseball [4].

Looking Ahead

With his impressive power, rapid development, and unwavering confidence, Leo De Vries is poised to make a significant impact on the Oakland Athletics and Major League Baseball. Fans will be watching closely to see if he can live up to the superstar potential that many believe he possesses.