In September 2013, Addison Russell completed his first full season as a professional baseball player. A 19-year-old shortstop for the Stockton Ports, Oakland’s Single-A minor league affiliate, Russell had put together an impressive campaign in which he slugged 17 home runs and swiped 21 bases. But as impressive as his bat was, many scouts remained wary of his ability to contribute at the Major League level. They believed his stocky build would inhibit him from playing shortstop in the big leagues, and that his bat would not be as valuable as that of a third baseman.
Always looking to improve his game, Russell heard their criticisms and doubled down on his defensive work.