The Oakland Athletics’ bullpen was a disaster in 2015. Many blamed it on the chaos caused by undefined relief roles since closer Sean Doolittle was absent for most of the season. However, many individual pitchers struggled with their command and consistency this year including Dan Otero.
This season, Otero bounced between Triple-A and the Majors due to his command issues. When he did pitch in Oakland, Otero was terribly inconsistent. One night, he went 3.1 innings and only allowed one hit. However, during his very next relief appearance, he gave up three earned runs in 1.1 innings. Ultimately, Otero ended 2015 with a 6.75 ERA over just 46.2 innings pitched.
This season’s performance was quite a change from the Otero fans saw in 2014. Even though it was rarely talked about, Otero was truly the most underrated relief pitcher in the A’s bullpen that year. He was extremely consistent and maintained a 2.28 ERA while only allowing four home runs over 86.2 innings. Additionally, he was able to help the team escape numerous jams throughout the season, which earned him an 8-2 winning record and 12 holds.
Interestingly enough, Otero came up through the San Francisco Giants’ farm system and made his MLB debut for them in 2012. Even though he struggled slightly in those 12 appearances he made that year across the bay, the A’s still claimed him off waivers for the 2013 season since they saw something special in him. Thankfully, they were right and Otero had a fantastic first season with the A’s.
Based on his entire baseball career, Otero even has the right stuff to possibly be a closer at some point. Despite having only pitched in a handful save opportunities at the big league level, Otero has extensive experience as a Minor League closer. Throughout his nine years in the Minors, Otero has successfully completed 101 saves out of 113 opportunities. So, there is no doubt that Otero is talented. Perhaps this year was just a fluke.
Unless another team wants to engage Oakland in a trade for Otero, it is likely that the A’s will keep him on their roster at least through spring training despite the need to rebuild the bullpen. He was a big part of the 2013 and 2014 team, and his previous success should earn him the opportunity to show how he has improved his craft this offseason. If Otero proves that his command is back on track this spring, he will definitely earn a spot in the Oakland Athletics’ 2016 bullpen.
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