Oakland A’s
The Oakland A’s were not expected to spend at all this offseason. Considering they essentially eschewed free agency last year and are in the middle of a rebuilding process, why would they?
Instead, the A’s have been surprisingly active. They have signed Jace Peterson, Aledmys Diaz, Drew Rucinski, and Trevor May, adding some desperately needed talent to the roster. At the same time, each of these contracts have been for one or two years, allowing their younger talent more time to develop without blocking their path to the majors.
The A’s still have plenty of holes to fill. One such hole would be in the ninth inning. Dany Jimenez had been the A’s closer last season prior to injuries and could get a look at that role again. One has to imagine that May will get a look at closing since he is making $7 million this year. However, a more proven closer could make sense.
Enter former New York Yankees closer Aroldis Chapman. He would have that experience in the ninth inning that the A’s need while helping to guide possible internal candidates through the rigors of being a closer. Chapman is also likely to be relatively inexpensive, making him a perfect fit in Oakland. And, if he performs well, he could be dealt to a contender at the trade deadline.
The Oakland A’s need a closer. Aroldis Chapman would be a perfect fit to take over in the ninth inning.