Josh Harrison remained hot at the plate Thursday, going 4-for-5 with two runs in the Athletics’ 7-2 win over the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium.
He has recently taken over the leadoff spot and has transitioned into it beautifully.
“I love leadoff,” Harrison told the NBC Sports California broadcast after the game. “In [Pittsburgh], 2014, ‘15, I lead off and I take pride in it, setting the table.”
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His teammates say the same thing.
“That guy is just unbelievable,” Chad Pinder said. “I mean, I really don’t know if there’s a better word for it.”
Pinder, as a utility man himself, knows how to be versatile, but said it’s how Harrison plays each position that makes him special.
“You know what he’s been able to do with the bat is obviously impressive, but what he does at each position, to me, is more impressive. He plays second, short, third, outfield spots -- elite level. It’s not just, you know -- fill in, and get by, it’s elite defense at each spot. It’s a lot of fun to watch. The guy, he’s a gamer he’s been very, very huge for us the last month, you know, since we got him.”
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Harrison was acquired right before the MLB trade deadline, along with veteran catcher Yan Gomes from the Washington Nationals.
“It’s a guy that’s been a huge bright spot in our lineup and somebody that I’ve enjoyed watching go to work,” Pinder added.
Pinder mentioned Harrison’s versatility is especially helpful with third baseman Matt Chapman being out with a shin/ankle injury.
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Harrison pulled off a sensational double play on Wednesday night in a critical situation to keep the A’s in the game for another win.
“The guy’s been special for us,” Pinder said.