Everyone knew that the Oakland A’s were going to be scraping the bottom of the barrel when it comes to free agency. Even in the best of times, they typically do not spend on the market, preferring to use their prospects or take a gamble on less expensive players. That is just how the A’s operate.
This is not the best of times. The A’s bottom of the barrel approach was going to go to new levels this offseason due to the financial crunch. As it turns out, no one knew how far down the barrel the A’s would have to go, as they reportedly do not have any money available.
I know I’m off the beat now the A’s not doing a one year deal for Semien under the QO is not a good sign for the direction the franchise is taking. They’ve been telling agents they have no money. I guess they really don’t, considering Semien’s importance to the team/community.
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) January 26, 2021
It just got worse for the Oakland A’s
That lack of financial resources explains the A’s behavior this offseason. Their biggest moves have been to trade for Nik Turley and to be active in the Rule V Draft. While Oakland has been connected to a few players, nothing further has occurred.
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This also explains their odd behavior when it came to their own free agents. Liam Hendriks barely heard from the A’s at all, getting congratulatory messages about his awards, but nothing in regards to a contract offer. Likewise, the A’s stated how they wanted Tommy La Stella and Marcus Semien back, but there were never any rumors about contract offers.
The A’s lack of financial resources does not bode well for the upcoming season. In theory, this should be the point in time that the team builds around their young core, going all out for a championship while they can. Instead, their inability to spend at all could lead to a wasted year for the organization.
At some point, the A’s are going to have to bring someone in. With ten free agents this offseason, they will not be able to restock the roster exclusively from their farm system. Even if the A’s sign several players to minor league contracts, they need to build their depth up.
The problem is whether or not they can even afford to do that. The Oakland A’s are reportedly strapped for cash in the worst possible way.