Oakland Athletics’ up-and-coming catcher Daniel Susac made a significant impact in the game, smashing two home runs, including a pivotal three-run shot in the bottom of the 9th inning to secure a walk-off victory against the Cincinnati Reds. The A’s rallied late, putting together a stunning comeback by scoring six unanswered runs in the last three innings.
On the pitching side, prospect Mason Miller faced some struggles, experiencing his first notable setback of the spring as he gave up three runs on two hits and a walk, prompting his removal after recording just two outs in the 6th inning. Michael Kelly conceded another run in the 6th, followed by Kyle Muller surrendering a run on two hits and a walk in the 7th, which gave the Reds a 6-2 advantage going into the bottom of the 7th.
However, Susac provided a glimmer of hope for the A’s by launching a two-run homer in the bottom of the 7th, narrowing the deficit to 6-4. The team managed to add another run in the 8th inning thanks to an RBI groundout by Jonny Butler.
In a crucial moment in the 9th inning, Susac once again rose to the occasion with runners on first and second base. He delivered a powerful hit off Andrew Moore’s pitch, sending the ball deep into left field to complete the remarkable comeback win. Notably, Susac had not hit a home run throughout the spring, although he had seen limited playing time prior to this game.
Have a day, Daniel Susac. His second homer of the day is a walk-off three-run homer. A's win 8-6.
— MartÃn Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) March 22, 2024
Susac has only played in 6 games, with 7 plate appearances resulting in just one run scored. Consequently, he won’t be considered as an option for the Athletics at the beginning of the season. Instead, either Carlos Perez or Kyle McCann will serve as Shea Langeliers’ backup.
Despite earning a promotion to Double-A Midland late last summer, Susac’s experience above High-A is limited to just 13 games. While there’s a possibility he could advance to Triple-A by the end of the year, it’s unlikely he’ll make his major league debut until 2025 at the earliest.
Starting pitcher Alex Wood had a commendable performance, pitching 3 innings and allowing only one run on two hits, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. Wood is slated to start the next Thursday night’s game against the Guardians and is not expected to pitch again during spring training.
The Athletics will return to Hohokam Stadium tomorrow afternoon for a game against the Los Angeles Angels. Right-handed pitcher Ross Stripling is set to pitch against Angels’ righty Matt Moore. The game will commence at 12:05 pm PST.
