At least the Oakland A’s are starting to do something this offseason. They have actually signed a free agent, albeit a backup catcher on a minor league deal. Nik Turley was brought in to add another lefty to the bullpen. These moves may not exactly be inspiring, but at least they are something.
On Saturday, the A’s continued their dumpster diving in an attempt to fill out their roster. They acquired Cole Irvin from the Phillies for the ever exciting Cash Considerations.
We’ve acquired LHP Cole Irvin from the Philadelphia Phillies in exchange for cash considerations. Welcome home, Cole! #RootedInOakland pic.twitter.com/VFMxkMkWsT
— Oakland A's (@Athletics) January 30, 2021
What does Cole Irvin bring the Oakland A’s?
Irvin’s major league track record does nothing to inspire confidence. He has posted a 6.75 ERA and a 1.544 WHiP over his 45.1 innings, spanning 19 appearances. He has struck out 35 batters with 14 walks in that time, not a particularly overwhelming performance.
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This acquisition may be about potential. Irvin was once considered one of the Phillies’ better prospects, appearing on their top 30 list twice during his time in the minors. He has also produced excellent results in AAA, with a 20-5 record to go along with his 3.07 ERA and 1.165 WHiP, striking out 196 batters with 49 walks over his 255 innings.
While the A’s may be looking to find a way to unlock Irvin’s potential, he is not a lock for the major league roster. He still has a minor league option remaining, so he could easily return to AAA to begin the season. If nothing else, he will serve as a depth piece for the A’s, someone that could be brought up to the majors as needed.
That is, assuming he remains on the roster. Oakland’s 40 man roster is full with Irvin’s acquisition, and he is not a guarantee to remain there throughout the offseason. A pitcher such as Irvin may be able to slide through waivers, outrighted to the minors without being claimed by another organization.
The Oakland A’s continue dumpster diving as they fill out their roster. Cole Irvin is just the latest example.