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Oakland A’s: Three bounceback starters to consider

By David Hill

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 26: Corey Kluber (28) of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Colorado Rockies in the top of the first inning at Globe Life Field on July 26, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 26: Corey Kluber (28) of the Texas Rangers pitches against the Colorado Rockies in the top of the first inning at Globe Life Field on July 26, 2020 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images)
(Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

Corey Kluber

As part of their effort to completely revamp their starting rotation, the Texas Rangers acquired Corey Kluber from the Cleveland Indians for reliever Emmanuel Clase and outfielder Delino Deshields Jr.

At the time, the trade seemed to be a steal for the Rangers. While Kluber was not the two time Cy Young winner he once was, he was still viewed as a possible top of the rotation arm. With a reasonable team option for 2021, he was the type of arm that the Rangers needed.

Instead, that trade was a disaster. Kluber lasted exactly one inning for Texas before missing the rest of the season with a teres injury. It was not a surprise that the Rangers declined his $18 million option for 2021, instead opting to pay the $1 million buy out.

While the Rangers are reportedly looking to bring him back, this could be an opportunity for the Oakland A’s. Kluber would be a definite upgrade, and if healthy, could be the top of the rotation arm that the A’s need. Of course, that is a huge if at this point in his career.

Corey Kluber could be one of the biggest bargains in free agency. He is well worth a look for the Oakland A’s.