BA Grade: 50/Extreme

Track Record: Thomas was a power-speed threat at Mercer, albeit with hit tool questions after batting .228 in the Cape Cod League in 2021. He was in the midst of a productive junior spring in 2022 until a right shoulder labrum injury in May required season-ending surgery. The A’s signed him for $750,000 in the third round that year, and he made his pro debut in 2023, hitting .286/.351/.493 across Low-A Stockton and High-A Lansing.

Scouting Report: Based on tools and athleticism, Thomas stacks up with almost any player in Oakland’s system. He has plus raw power, mostly geared toward right-center field, and averaged 104 mph 90th percentile exit velocity in 2023. Thomas’ plus running ability translates to both his defense and baserunning, where he stole 25 bases in 31 attempts. But there are concerns his hitting approach won’t hold up against better pitching. Thomas struck out 29.5% of the time compared to a 4.6% walk rate against High-A pitching. He chases too frequently, especially early in the count against breaking balls. Thomas plays with a high motor and covers plenty of ground defensively. He has a strong throwing arm, but his route-running needs refining. He’s likely best suited to right field.

The Future: Thomas has some of the higher upside among position players in Oakland’s system. There’s risk involved, though, and his pitch recognition and plate coverage require considerable refinement to help reach that ceiling.

Scouting Grades Hit: 40 | Power: 55 | Run: 55 | Field: 45 | Arm: 55