Oakland A’s
The Oakland A’s have not exactly been a team that has been willing to spend money over the years. That was especially the case this offseason, as they had to trade Khris Davis to open up the cash flow to sign several lower priced veterans.
Trevor Rosenthal was a part of that late flurry of signings. He agreed to a one year deal worth $11 million, with a great deal of deferred money, to make that fit work. However, due to surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome, and then surgery on his hip, he will not pitch for the A’s this season.
Lou Trivino has performed well in his place, and may well be the closer of the future, but the A’s could look for an upgrade in the bullpen. The back of the bullpen has been taxed as their lack of depth has been exposed. Adding Craig Kimbrel to the mix would help the beleaguered bullpen get the rest they need.
Kimbrel could also make a major difference in the A’s quest for the postseason. They are 3.5 games behind the Astros in the AL West and currently hold the second Wild Card berth. Adding a proven weapon in the ninth inning, such as Kimbrel, could be the difference between reaching the playoffs and watching the postseason from the sidelines.
The Oakland A’s have not been afraid to make a splash at the trade deadline before. Perhaps this year, they will land the Chicago Cubs closer to help with their postseason push.