In a surprising move, the Oakland Athletics have acquired first baseman Ike Davis from the Pittsburgh Pirates for international slot money. The move was first reported by Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle.
A source tells me the #Athletics have acquired Ike Davis from the #Pirates for international slot money. It's strictly a move for depth.
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) November 23, 2014
Davis was designated for assignment by Pittsburgh last week after just one season with the club. The 27-year-old improved from his down year in 2013, but was still a far cry from his breakout season with the New York Mets back in 2012, batting just .233/.344/.378 in 143 games split between New York and Pittsburgh. The lion’s share of those games (131) came with the Pirates, with whom Davis clubbed 10 home runs and 46 RBI.
The deal, in addition to the international bonus slot money, includes a swap of international bonus slots. Pittsburgh will receive Oakland’s first slot, which is valued at $501,900 in exchange for their third international slot, which carries a value of $232,000. The move now only adds to the logjam at first base for the Athletics, who have half a dozen options at their disposal including Butler, Davis, Brandon Moss, Kyle Blanks, Brandon Moss, John Jaso and Nate Freiman.
Davis is arbitration-eligible this offseason and, according to MLB Trade Rumors, is estimated to receive roughly $4.4 million. The acquisition of Davis could precipitate another move for Oakland general manager Billy Beane, although, as noted by Slusser, the move was for organizational depth. The Athletics’ beat writer did, however, note that if the team is overwhelmed by an offer, it could lead to them dealing from their stockpile of corner infielders.
Outfielder Andrew Brown was designated for assignment by Oakland to make room for Davis on the 40-man roster.