Oakland Athletics’ Offseason Options: Shortstops

Sep 8, 2015; Bronx, NY, USA; Baltimore Orioles designated hitter Jimmy Paredes (38) is forced out on the first part of a double play by New York Yankees second baseman Stephen Drew (14) in the seventh inning at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Drew / 33 years old

Positions: Shortstop and Second Baseman

Bats: Left, Throws: Right

Height: 6’ 0”, Weight: 190 lb.

This former Florida State University product has always been one of the most dependable shortstops around. He has played in over 120 games in all but two – excluding his midseason call-up his rookie season – years of his 10-year career. Averaging 16 home runs and 68 runs batted in over an 162-game span should speak volumes, and the A’s have already had a glimpse of his underrated skill set. In 2012, Oakland traded for Drew in order to sure up their infield for a then-playoff run. Defensively, he was better than Cliff Pennington while also providing some pop at the top of the lineup.

He’s currently under contract for just $5 million this year with the New York Yankees, but could possibly be expendable with the talent the Pinstripes have in  their farm system. Now, while Drew has primarily played second base for the majority of the season, I’ll bet he could dust off the rust to play shortstop relatively quickly. Also, being able to split time with Semien would benefit them both. With his non-overwhelming price tag as well, giving the ex-Athletic a call certainly couldn’t hurt.

Next: The Second Shortstop