OAKLAND ATHLETICS (69-93), 5TH, AL WEST
uSeason snapshot: The A’s had hoped to bounce back from a last-place finish with young starting pitching, a mix of veterans in the lineup and the addition of slugger
But Oakland’s rebound was muted when ace right-hander was beset by injuries and became a shell of himself. Others unable to pitch regularly because of physical restraints were lefthander and right-hander
Second baseman battled a foot ailment that required surgery, and Oakland’s lack of depth became evident as the injuries piled up. Davis, a left fielder, was sensational, hitting a career-high 42 homers. But he had little help in the lineup, which makes his season even more impressive considering his lack of protection.
uWhat now: The injuries allowed a group of youngsters, including third base-
and center fielder to gain experience. But the key is going be Gray and right-hander
another heralded youngster, getting their grooves back. Hahn spent most the year bouncing between the A’s and Class AAA before being shut down. Davis is going to need protection, and it’s difficult finding it on the current roster. The A’s might have to look outside the organization for another affordable slugger.
uFree agent focus: The A’s don’t figure to tender Alvarez after shoulder surgery that will sideline him next season. Utility man also could be moved or non-tendered. Valencia was involved in an altercation with Billy Butler during the season; Butler was released in September. The A’s could cut ties with two free agents, outfielder and lefthander Doubront figures man to be tendered despite his injury woes. Right-hander was effective as a reliever, but he recently had shoulder surgery.
uProspects to watch: Healy and Smolinski are among the first wave of prospects to land in Oakland. Shortstop
had a solid season in the minors and appears ready to contribute. His glove, though, needs to catch up with his bat. He could switch to second base with at shortstop. Worth watching are the three pitchers received in the deadline trade with the Los Angeles Dodgers for outfielder Josh Reddick and left-hander Rich Hill — righthanders and Cotton was 2-0 with a 2.15 ERA in five starts with the A’s.
Jay Paris