Billy Beane has been known to create a playoff caliber roster despite the money woes that accompany the Oakland A’s; this offseason was no different. The back-to-back executive of the year has made acquisitions that provide even more depth to this defending AL West Champion team. With pitchers and catchers reporting next week, it’s doubtful Beane makes another move before spring training.
Nelson Cruz is still an available free agent, and was on the A’s radar throughout the offseason, but he continues to be out of Oakland’s price range. Money aside, the A’s have a pretty strong outfield as it is, with Beane bringing in more outfielders to provide depth and and be prepared if injuries occur during the season.
Craig Gentry was sent to Oakland in exchange for a top prospect in Michael Choice. Gentry is a solid option for Bob Melvin off the bench, and can also handle a platoon situation and contribute throughout the year.
As it is, the A’s have one of the best outfields in the game in Coco Crisp, Yoenis Cespedes, and Josh Reddick. All three outfielders are great defenders and aren’t too bad at the plate, either. Despite a rocky 2013 season for Reddick, 2014 is a new year and with a healed wrist, he and the A’s will be hoping for a more successful season this year.
Pitching wise, Beane worked his magic by bringing in some new faces to create one of the best bullpens in the league. Jim Johnson, Josh Lindblom, Luke Gregerson, Eric O’Flaherty, and Fernando Abad were acquired this offseason and will join Sean Doolittle, Ryan Cook, and Dan Otero in the pen. Beane also brought in Scott Kazmir to join the starting rotation. Also, with the addition of Kazmir, it is a crowded rotation with only five spots making for an entertaining spring training.
Infield is and continues to be somewhat of a concern for the A’s. Second base is still up in the air at this point, as Eric Sogard, Alberto Callaspo, and a newly acquired Nick Punto will compete for playing time and a roster spot. These players aren’t flashy nor known for their bats, but they can get the job done.
When you look at the Oakland A’s roster it is full of depth. There are more than one option for almost every position. Multiple players can also play more than one position and, just like last year, Melvin will have a tough time finalizing his 25-man roster for opening day.
The last two seasons, Beane has gone out and made the necessary moves to improve the club. After last year’s disappointing ALDS, Beane revamped a worn out bullpen to ensure that Melvin will have options for any situation this year.
It’s been awhile since Mr. Moneyball Billy Beane made a move, and it’s unlikely he’ll make another one before spring training. The green and gold already had a playoff caliber roster, but with the acquisitions made by their division rivals, Beane had to stay one step ahead. He’s made the necessary signings for a successful season, as it should be another fun year of A’s baseball with pitching being their strength.