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Oakland A’s: Three options to be the next closer

By David Hill

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 01: Lou Trivino #62 of the Oakland Athletics pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning of Game Three of the American League Wild Card Round at RingCentral Coliseum on October 01, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 01: Lou Trivino #62 of the Oakland Athletics pitches against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning of Game Three of the American League Wild Card Round at RingCentral Coliseum on October 01, 2020 in Oakland, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
(Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /

Roberto Osuna

There are plenty of pitfalls that come with Roberto Osuna, none of which the Oakland A’s may want to have anything to do with.

He made just four appearances last season before being shut down due to elbow concerns. There had been the expectation that he would undergo Tommy John surgery, but he instead opted for alternative treatment. Osuna was throwing again by the end of the year, and could be ready for the start of 2021. There is also the matter of his past. He had been suspended for 75 games for violating the league’s domestic violence policy, making him a tough sell to any fanbase.

From a pure results standpoint, there are few closers on the market that can match Osuna on the mound. Over the course of his career, he has notched 155 saves over his career, posting a 2.74 ERA and a 0.905 WHiP, striking out 348 batters with 55 walks over 315 innings.

Osuna would also be more than just a one year option. He is under team control through 2022, and could be exactly what the A’s need in the ninth inning. His injury concerns and past would likely drive his market down to the point where he would fit within the budget.

dark. Next. An opportunity for Grant Holmes

There is more to Roberto Osuna than just the results on the diamond however. He may be the best option available that fits within the Oakland A’s budget, but there is still plenty of baggage.