The Athletics have long understood that a successful rebuild starts with a strong first-round pick. As a small-market club, Oakland has consistently relied on its farm system to develop talent rather than splashing cash on free-agent superstars. And when it comes to drafting, the front office has a solid track record of turning early selections into big-league contributors—just look at Tyler Soderstrom, Max Muncy, Jacob Wilson, and Nick Kurtz.

Typically, the A's lean toward position players in the first round. But they zigged last year, taking Florida State right-hander Jamie Arnold with the 11th overall pick. Now, with the 8th pick in the upcoming draft, Oakland could be eyeing a familiar name with serious upside.

According to Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter, the Athletics are linked to Jacob Lombard—a high school shortstop and the younger brother of Yankees top prospect George Lombard Jr. The younger Lombard brings a tantalizing blend of tools: 60-grade power, 65-grade speed, and a 6'3", 185-pound frame that already looks more physical than his older brother's.

Reuter describes Lombard as a "dynamic raw tools" player with "one of the highest ceilings in the entire class." He's a shortstop with the athleticism to stay up the middle and the pop to develop into a middle-of-the-order threat. That kind of upside is hard to find, especially at pick No. 8.

Of course, there are some red flags. Lombard struggled against fastballs up in the zone during last summer's showcase circuit, which gave some scouts pause. But he's added strength and speed this year, and his overall athleticism suggests he could refine his approach with pro coaching. For a team like Oakland, which has taken high-ceiling high school bats before, Lombard could be worth the gamble.

With plenty of college talent also on the board, the A's have options. But if they're looking for a dynamic, projectable infielder with bloodlines and a sky-high ceiling, Jacob Lombard might just be their guy.