Athletics' Zack Gelof Aims to Bounce Back from Injury-Plagued Season

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Zack Gelof, the Oakland Athletics' promising young outfielder, is feeling healthy and ready to participate fully in spring training after an injury-plagued 2025 season. Gelof, who hit 14 home runs and stole 14 bases in just 69 games as a rookie in 2023, is looking to rebound and solidify his role in the team's rebuilding effort.

Why it matters

Gelof's development is crucial for the Athletics as they look to rebuild and return to contention. His combination of power and speed made him an exciting prospect, but injuries and struggles at the plate last season have raised questions about his long-term outlook. A strong spring training performance could go a long way in securing his spot on the team's Opening Day roster.

The details

Gelof missed the start of the 2025 season while recovering from a fractured bone in his right wrist and a stress reaction in his ribs. He didn't make his big-league debut until early July and then struggled mightily, hitting just .174/.230/.272 with a 45.5% strikeout rate over 101 plate appearances before being shut down in late September due to a dislocated left shoulder.

• Gelof missed the start of the 2025 season while recovering from a fractured bone in his right wrist and a stress reaction in his ribs.
• Gelof didn't make his big-league debut until early July 2025.
• Gelof was shut down in late September 2025 due to a dislocated left shoulder.

What’s next

Gelof will need to have a strong showing at the plate during Cactus League play to make a compelling case for a spot on the Athletics' Opening Day roster.