Oakland Athletics Roundup: A’s Acquire Khris Davis; DFA Sean Nolin
A’s Acquire Outfielder Khris Davis; Designate Sean Nolin For Assignment
Oakland Athletics Roundup: Monday, February 15
The Oakland Athletics made an unpredictable move on the final weekend of the offseason, as they dealt away catching prospect Jacob Nottingham and pitcher Bubba Derby on Friday in exchange for slugger Khris Davis, adding a long-term improvement to their outfield.
Khris Davis is no Chris Davis (honestly, who is?), but he did hit 27 homers in under 400 at-bats last season, posting a combined OPS of .809 over the last two seasons for Milwaukee. The newest addition to the A’s missed considerable time last year after undergoing knee surgery, but if he can stay healthy, he will be a huge upgrade for the Athletics in left field.
The A’s have stated that this will permanently relegate Coco Crisp to a bench role, with Davis picking up the bulk of the playing time in the Athletics’ weakest outfield spot.
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The downside, of course, is that the A’s were forced to clear a roster spot to make room for Davis. The unfortunate recipient was Sean Nolin, who struggled in 2015 after dealing with multiple injuries. It seemed like a bit of an odd choice, given that Nolin was a component of the Josh Donaldson trade and had showed glimpses of promise, but ultimately Davis is the better use of a roster spot.
Going forward, one concern will be whether Davis can continue his power numbers in the Coliseum. The Brewers’ stadium is much more hitter-friendly than Oakland’s, and it’s almost guaranteed that there will be a drop in power. Still, Davis is certain to be a major improvement over Crisp, Sam Fuld and even Mark Canha.
In Case You Missed It:
Third Baseman Overlooked Key to A’s Success – Rich Paloma details how important third basemen have been in the history of the A’s – will this year’s crop of options at the hot corner lead the A’s to a successful season?
A’s Acquire Khris Davis from Brewers – For a much more detailed look at the acquisition of Khris Davis, check out Casey Witt’s piece about who the newest Oakland Athletics slugger is, as well as what to expect. He also explains what the A’s gave up in order to get him.
A’s Should Not Have DFA’d Pitcher Sean Nolin – Samantha Riley debates whether the Athletics made the right call in cutting ties with Sean Nolin, after acquiring him in the blockbuster Josh Donaldson deal. Her conclusion? Absolutely not. Be sure to check out the reasoning behind her opinion.
#Athletics
Here's a look at Khris Davis wearing green and gold. Welcome to the #Athletics! #GreenCollar pic.twitter.com/t2K6RqvyZK
— Oakland A's (@Athletics) February 13, 2016
David Forst said A's expect Davis to play left field. Said Crisp could still help team in OF, DH.
— John Shea (@JohnSheaHey) February 13, 2016
"I think [1B-OF] @outtadapakmark is going to find ways to get AB's": David Forst. #Athletics
— manolo hernandez d. (@beisbolporgotas) February 13, 2016
"We've no concerns about @SVogt1229": David Forst on the #Athletics regular catcher regarding Opening Day.
— manolo hernandez d. (@beisbolporgotas) February 13, 2016
Next: The Top 50 Players in Oakland Athletics History
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