By Mark Simon, Sports Info Solutions



All stats through Tuesday’s games



In 2017 the Oakland Athletics finished 28th among the 30 major league teams, with -48 Defensive Runs Saved.



But given the talent turnover and last season’s call-up of a defensive wunderkind, third baseman Matt Chapman, there was optimism that things would get better.



They have.



The Athletics have saved 22 runs defensively this season, which ranks ninth overall and third in the American League.



Chapman’s presence has certainly made a difference. Though currently on the disabled list with a hand injury, he ranks first in the majors with 18 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), five runs better than any other player.



That’s largely due to the success he’s had on balls hit down the third base line, where his range and 95-mph throws allow him to get outs that no other third baseman can.



The closest third baseman statwise to...