Oakland Athletics: Will Chris Bassitt Join Oakland Soon?
By Joey Lopez
With the rotation struggling, could the A’s call-up Chris Bassitt next week when rosters expand?
The Oakland Athletics have had a rough time in August and could be looking for help when rosters expand next week. Sean Manaea, Kendall Graveman and Jharel Cotton have struggled in August and the A’s rotation needs some assistance.
The A’s recently recalled Daniel Gossett from Triple-A this week, but his return was less than stellar. In five innings of work, Gossett allowed five runs and eight hits while striking out six. On the year, Gossett is 3-6 with a 5.49 ERA.
Meanwhile, the A’s have another option still waiting in Nashville: Chris Bassitt. Bassitt, 28, is coming off Tommy John surgery and the A’s are, rightfully so, keeping a close eye on his recovery.
Oakland Athletics
LOOKING AT THE NUMBERS…THERE’S NO RUSH
Bassitt’s numbers in Nashville have not been impressive. In 15 overall appearances this year, Bassitt is 4-2 with a 6.48 ERA. He has logged 33-plus innings of work with the Sounds and seems to be rehabbing well despite the poor numbers.
The A’s are in need for reinforcements, but rushing Bassitt for a handful of appearances next month is probably not the smartest option for Oakland.
Heading into next year, the A’s will have a few options in regards to their rotation. Assuming Bassitt is healthy, the A’s will likely view him as a solid option for the rotation.
As it stands now, though, Bassitt is not quite ready to assume the role of starter. He has yet to establish any sort of consistency in Nashville.
The A’s would be smart to continue to allow Bassitt to figure things out and establish a level of consistency before having him return.
I would expect Bassitt to remain in Nashville, at least for now. Things can always change, especially if the rotation continues to falter. The status of Paul Blackburn could always change things as well.