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Oakland Athletics: Four Key Relievers Who Should Return In 2016

By Katrina Hamrick

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Sep 8, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Ryan Dull (66) throws a pitch against the Houston Astros during the ninth inning at O.co Coliseum. The Oakland Athletics defeated the Houston Astros 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

The Newbie: Ryan Dull

This is likely the pick that will garner the most criticism. Sure, Dull makes a good September call-up, but what has he had the opportunity to prove?

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    • Dull may not have been around for long, but he’s been downright impressive in his brief time with the A’s. Since being called up for his major league debut in September, Dull has pitched six scoreless innings in five outings, striking out seven batters in the process. As far as baserunners, Dull has allowed just one hit. Sure, it’s a small sample size, but it lines up with what the young right-hander has done in the minors.

    Dull was drafted in the 32nd round of the 2012 draft, and he has progressed steadily through the Oakland Athletics’ system since then. He owns a career minor league ERA of 2.07 over 153 games, with just 259 strikeouts in 209 innings. Confused about why no one has ever talked about Dull’s future with the A’s before? Primarily, it’s because right-handed relievers rarely make headlines – but Dull has potential. Not everyone can strike out batters like that, and he’s only gotten better as he’s jumped through the system.

    The 25-year-old split time between Double- and Triple-A this season, throwing 61 innings to the tune of a 0.74 ERA, with 73 punch-outs and  just 16 walks. He certainly deserved a September call-up, but he also deserves consideration for a more permanent role with the team. When Opening Day rolls around, Dull should be in the bullpen.

    With these four relievers as the base of a revamped bullpen, the Oakland Athletics will have a solid foundation to add to over the off-season.

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