QUIET THREATS: What the A’s See in Colby Thomas and Carlos Cortes (And Why It Matters Now)

Colby Thomas and Carlos Cortes aren’t just names on a depth chart—they represent two very different paths the A’s are trying to balance right now. Thomas brings patience, power, and a modern offensive profile that fits how the league actually works in 2026. Cortes brings contact, versatility, and a grinder’s edge that managers quietly love. The question isn’t if they belong—it’s how they’re used, and whether the A’s are ready to commit to what each player does best instead of forcing them into tidy boxes.

From there, the conversation expands. With Sutter Health Park playing smaller and louder for hitters, the A’s may not be able to build a pitching staff the way they used to. Stan and I break down what that means in plain English: more strike throwers, more ground balls, fewer “project” arms that need perfect conditions to survive. We wrap by looking ahead to spring training decisions that will quietly shape the season—bench roles, bullpen jobs, and positional logjams that don’t make headlines but absolutely decide wins and losses. This is roster construction season, whether teams admit it or not.

A’s, Athletics, Colby Thomas, Carlos Cortes, A’s sleepers, A’s underdogs, A’s prospects, A’s lineup, A’s roster decisions, A’s spring training, Sacramento A’s, Sutter Health Park, A’s pitching strategy, A’s farm system, MLB sleepers, MLB underdogs, Athletics podcast, Locked On A’s, A’s depth, A’s 2026 season

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