Athletics to acquire Ben Zobrist and Yunel Escobar from Rays

Billy Beane continues to make moves even with the departures of Josh Donaldson, Jeff Samardzija, Brandon Moss, and Derek Norris. Just when you think the Oakland Athletics aren’t going to contend, he strikes again and fixes the middle of his infield with one trade.

Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle first reported that Oakland and Tampa Bay were on the verge of an agreement that will send Ben Zobrist and Yunel Escobar to the A’s. Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported that the Rays would receive John Jaso and prospect Daniel Robertson.

Prospect outfielder Herschel Mack Powell, known as Boog Powell, will also be headed to the Rays. With the trade sending Jaso to the Rays, the opportunity of getting more playing time at the catching position for Stephen Vogt and offseason addition Josh Phegley.

Zobrist, 33, has spent his entire nine-year career with the Rays and has significant playing time at several positions, including second base, shortstop and right field. The two-time All-Star batted .272/.354/.395 with 10 home runs and 52 RBIs last season. He’s due to make $7.5 million in 2015 before hitting free agency and could be a trade chip for Oakland if they fall out of the AL West playoff race.

Escobar, who took a huge step back last year, batted .258/.324/.340 with seven homers last season, his second with Tampa Bay and his eighth in the majors. He’s owed $5 million in 2015 and $7 million in 2016 while his contract includes a $7 million club option or $1 million buyout for 2017.