Oakland A’s finally do something this offseason

The Oakland A’s have woken up from their slumber and have done something to address a hole in their bullpen.

The Oakland A’s had done virtually nothing this offseason. There had been rumors over the past few days, but until that point, there had been silence from the front office. Plenty of holes were evident on the roster, but nothing had been done.

Finally, on Thursday, the A’s showed some signs of life. They acquired Nik Turley from the Pirates for cash considerations.

In acquiring Turley, the A’s finally have a second left handed option in the bullpen. Jake Diekman, their presumed closer, had been the only lefty until this trade.

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After missing time due to Tommy John surgery and a PED suspension in 2018, Turley had a respectable year for the Pirates in 2020. He posted a 4.98 ERA and a 1.108 WHiP in his 21.2 innings, striking out 20 batters with 11 walks. His elite spin rate for both his fastball and curve hint that there could be some untapped potential.

The A’s are essentially making a small gamble that he has another level. Turley is out of minor league options, so he would need to spend the season with Oakland or be exposed to waivers. As it is, he will need to be added to the 40 man roster, but with several openings, that is not an issue.

Should Turley impress in spring training, this would make the A’s plan to turn Diekman into a closer that much easier. They would not need to worry about matching up against tough lefties in the latter innings. However, as Turley has been far better against righties over his career, Oakland may want to consider adding another left handed option anyway.

The Oakland A’s have finally done something to supplement their major league roster. Nik Turley is now a part of the bullpen.