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Oakland A’s: 3 potential trade targets for playoff push

By David Hill

Jun 19, 2021; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) pulls Baltimore Orioles shortstop Freddy Galvis (2) from the pile during the fourth innings after both benches ran onto the field at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 19, 2021; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) pulls Baltimore Orioles shortstop Freddy Galvis (2) from the pile during the fourth innings after both benches ran onto the field at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports /

The Oakland A’s find themselves in a somewhat difficult spot. They clearly have the talent and the potential to be able to reach the postseason, perhaps even taking the AL West crown for the second consecutive season. That was certainly the goal heading into the year, and although they have fallen behind Houston in the division, it is still within reach.

However, the A’s also have a flawed roster. Shortstop has been a sore spot all season, and it is clear that they need help at second base as well. Jed Lowrie has been solid for much of the season, but is clearly wearing down. Having another option to give him time off could make a difference down the stretch.

Potential trade targets for Oakland A’s

The A’s could also use help in the bullpen. While the back of the bullpen has been solid, they have also been overworked this season due to issues with the rest of the relief corps. Adding another middle reliever or two could make a difference down the stretch and into the postseason.

This does not mean that the A’s will be breaking the bank. There are concerns with their budget when it comes to any additions, as they will likely be scouring the bargain bin. Likewise, the farm system does not have the type of prospects needed to bring in top talent. Nonetheless, the A’s can still find upgrades before the trade deadline.

Let us take a look at three possible trade targets for the Oakland A’s.

Freddy Galvis

Infield depth is a concern for the Oakland A’s. Freddy Galvis may not be close to being a star, but he could help.

Galvis is no stranger to being dealt at the trade deadline, as he had been acquired by the Reds to shore up the infield in 2019. Although he has spent most of his time at shortstop, Galvis has saved nine runs defensively in his 142 games at second, and can even fill in at third if needed.

He could also provide a decent amount of pop off the bench or in a backup role. Galvis has produced a .249/.306/.414 batting line in his 274 plate appearances heading into Sunday, hitting nine homers and 12 doubles. He had reached the double digit plateau in homers from 2016 through 2019, and could add another dimension to the A’s lineup.

Any financial concerns would not matter. He is only making $1.5 million for the 2021 season, with the A’s capable of affording the rest of his salary down the stretch. With the Orioles clearly out of contention, and looking to add pieces for the future, he will be available.

Freddy Galvis may not be an exciting player. But he would fit the Oakland A’s need for depth in the middle of their infield.