Oakland Athletics Rumors: Five Players Who Should Be Shopped

Tyler Clippard

Jun 21, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics pitcher Tyler Clippard (36) prepares to deliver a pitch against the Los Angeles Angels in the eighth inning at O.co Coliseum. The Athletics defeated the Angels 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

This must be prefaced with the fact that Oakland should not actually trade Tyler Clippard unless another strong closer or reliever has been acquired. With Sean Doolittle not even throwing yet and the bullpen continuing to struggle, it would be a huge blow to the team to lose Clippard without a quality replacement. However, if the A’s are able to trade Kazmir or Zobrist for a solid closer such as Jonathan Papelbon or Francisco Rodriguez, both who are rumored to be on the trading block, then it would make sense to shop Clippard.

Again, like Kazmir and Zobrist, Clippard is in the last year of his contract before free agency. Despite Oakland’s bullpen issues this year, Clippard has stepped up and taken on the closer role successfully. He currently has 14 saves this season with a 2.67 ERA.

Even though he has not been great compared to his statistics from previous seasons, it must be noted that Clippard is not pitching in his normal role, but has handled the pressure of a closer as well as could be expected. Typically a setup man, Clippard would be great for any team who will likely be making a push for the postseason. He would strengthen any bullpen and would provide great support as the eighth inning setup man.

Next: Billy Butler