Signing veteran Billy Butler to a substantial contract last year was a mistake for the Oakland Athletics
During the 2014-2015 offseason, the Oakland Athletics signed a declining slugger to a three-year, $30 million deal. There were some hopes that this veteran would bounce back from his slump year in 2014. However, his production continued to decline and his place on a team that rarely had an appointed designated hitter came into question. This player is none other than ‘Country Breakfast’ himself, Billy Butler.
The A’s were willing to give Butler another chance to prove himself in 2016. They were cautiously optimistic that Butler would re-discover his power this season. Unfortunately, Butler’s bat has been underwhelming.
For 2016, Butler is currently hitting .216 with zero home runs and only three RBI. Now, it must be noted that he has only played in 15 games because the Athletics are using Butler as a platoon DH. But, for a player who was originally highly valued for his bat and his bat alone, Butler should be performing better.
So, why not trade him? His lack of production and expensive salary makes him a less-than-desirable trade pawn. Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle even stated on Twitter that the A’s have tried to trade Butler, but no one wants him.
Ultimately, it is time to let Butler go and eat the rest of his contract. Yes, it is expensive, but he is taking up a very valuable place on Oakland’s active that could be filled by a more qualified player. With other players like Mark Canha and Khris Davis also vying for regular playing time as well as other qualified players waiting in the minors, Butler’s spot on the roster could be used more effectively by giving it to a more productive player.
Butler himself is even getting frustrated with being a platoon player. In a San Francisco Chronicle article written by John Shea, Butler told the press that his production at the plate has dwindled because of his lack of regular playing time. Maybe he would not be too disgruntled if the A’s let him go.
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The A’s should try one more time to trade him before this year’s deadline in July. However, should Oakland be unsuccessful, they should just let him go. He is taking up a valuable roster spot, his production is not up to par, and his role as a platoon designated hitter does not seem to be benefitting him or the A’s. It is time to let Butler go.