In today’s episode of Locked On A’s, host Booney tackles a major point of contention for A’s fans: Mason Miller being overlooked as a finalist for the American League Rookie of the Year. Booney reviews Miller’s standout stats, including his 2.4 WAR, 2.49 ERA, and impressive 104 strikeouts over just 65 innings, arguing that these numbers rival past Rookie of the Year relievers. Using comparisons to former winners like Neftali Feliz and Andrew Bailey, Booney emphasizes how Miller’s performance—especially his strikeout count—makes his exclusion from the finalists a puzzling oversight. Booney calls it a clear “snub,” a missed opportunity to recognize a standout player in a challenging rookie season.

The episode continues by examining Oakland A’s players historically overlooked in postseason awards, starting with Jason Giambi’s 2001 MVP case against Ichiro Suzuki, where Giambi’s stats arguably outperformed the award winner’s, despite Ichiro's impact. Booney also delves into past snubs, including Mike Norris missing out on the 1980 Cy Young and Mitchell Page’s near-miss in the 1977 Rookie of the Year race. Wrapping up, Booney speculates on the A’s 2025 award contenders, naming Jacob Wilson as a Rookie of the Year hopeful and making a case for Miguel Andújar as a Comeback Player of the Year candidate, both with potential to make a huge impact for Oakland if they stay healthy.