Barreto, who's slashing .314/.362/.500 over 41 games with Triple-A Nashville, is expected to be the first call-up this summer if it becomes evident the Athletics are out of playoff contention, Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. "I'm impressed with how well (Barreto) is starting to turn on pitches. He's very aggressive on the bases and he's consistent defensively," one National League scout said. "I still see him as an offensive second baseman - Oakland will be much better with him at second in the second half."
The promising infielder has 203 plate appearances at the Triple-A level between last season and 2017, so he's certainly had a solid amount of seasoning. Barreto has been playing shortstop for the Sounds, but with Marcus Semien (wrist) slated to come off the disabled list in mid June, there will not be a vacancy at the position with the big-league club. Barreto's arrival would presumably be preceded by the trade of veteran Jed Lowrie, who presently occupies second base and is enjoying his best season since 2013.