The Oakland A’s farm system is buzzing with excitement, and one prospect just clinched the #2 spot on the Athletics Community Prospect List—but it’s not without controversy. Jamie Arnold, the 11th overall pick in last year’s draft, narrowly edged out fellow left-hander Gage Jump with 60% of the vote. But here’s where it gets controversial: while Arnold is further down the pipeline compared to other top prospects, some believe he could surpass them all. Dubbed the ‘next Chris Sale’ by many, the 21-year-old side-armer hasn’t even started his professional career yet, but expectations are sky-high. Will he live up to the hype? And this is the part most people miss: his journey is just beginning, likely starting at Single-A with a quick promotion on the horizon.
Next up, Wei-En Lin, a Taiwanese lefty who’s rocketed up the A’s system rankings. With a vast pitching repertoire, he’s knocking on the door of the starting rotation by year’s end. But will he leapfrog Arnold or Jump in the rankings? That’s the million-dollar question.
Before we dive into the nominees for the #3 spot, let’s talk process. Here’s how the voting works:
- Vote for one player only. The winner secures the ranked spot, while the remaining four move to the next ballot alongside a new nominee.
- Nominate players for the next round in the comments using the format: ‘Nomination: Player Name.’
- If a prospect is traded, their name is crossed out, and others move up. New acquisitions? A special vote decides their ranking.
A’s Top Prospects, Ranked:
1. Leo De Vries
2. Jamie Arnold
Who’s next? Let’s meet the contenders:
Gage Jump, LHP
Expected Level: Triple-A | Age: 22
Jump’s 2025 stats (A+/AA) were impressive: 3.28 ERA, 131 strikeouts, and a 2.96 FIP across 112 2/3 IP. His fastball, sitting 92-94 mph with a deceptive arm angle, keeps hitters guessing. Pair that with a nasty slider and a curveball with sharp break, and you’ve got a potential mid-rotation starter. But here’s the debate: some scouts think he’s better suited for the bullpen. What do you think—starter or reliever?
Henry Bolte, OF
Expected Level: Triple-A | Age: 22
Bolte is a toolsy athlete with near-elite speed (46 stolen bases last season) and a strong arm. His raw power is undeniable, but his high strikeout rate and struggles with offspeed pitches are red flags. The A’s have tweaked his swing, but is it enough? He’s an exciting talent, but will he refine his approach in time?
Braden Nett, RHP
Expected Level: Triple-A | Age: 23
Nett’s velocity is electric, touching 99 mph, with a slider that generated a 38% whiff rate in ’24. His injury history and control issues have some wondering if he’ll end up in the bullpen, but his deep arsenal keeps him in the starting conversation—for now. Can he stay healthy and consistent?
Johenssy Colome, SS
Colome is a 16-year-old phenom with explosive power and a Manny Machado-esque defensive profile. His aggressive approach at the plate has drawn comparisons to Vladimir Guerrero Jr., but will his frame allow him to stay at shortstop long-term? He’s a high-risk, high-reward prospect—worth the gamble?
Wei-En Lin, LHP
Expected Level: Double-A | Age: 20
Lin’s five-pitch mix and projectable frame make him a fascinating prospect. His fastball sits at 91 mph but touches 95, and his changeup is already a plus pitch. If he adds strength and velocity, he could be a steal for the A’s. But is he ready to jump into the starting rotation conversation this year?
Programming Note: Each CPL vote lasts just 48 hours, so don’t wait—cast your vote now!
Thought-Provoking Question: With Arnold, Jump, and Lin all vying for the top left-handed pitching spot, who do you think has the highest ceiling? And which prospect on this list is most likely to surprise—or disappoint—in the coming years? Let’s hear your take in the comments!
