Just as with Darren O’Day, Dan Winkler is not the type of pitcher that will generate headlines. However, he is the type of reliever that the Oakland A’s could use.
With just two career saves over parts of seven seasons in the majors, Winkler is another arm who would not be a threat for the later innings. However, as a ground ball specialist, he serves a very specific role in the bullpen, and could be just the piece needed to get out of those jams in the middle innings.
Winkler has been kept busy by the Cubs this season, appearing in 31 games. Over his 29.1 innings, he has posted a stellar 1.23 ERA and a 1.125 WHiP, striking out 31 batters with 16 walks. Those ground ball tendencies have helped him to keep the ball in the yard, as Winkler has allowed just one homer on the season.
The Cubs are not necessarily ready to sell, but that time may be coming. They had plummeted in the NL Central, falling from first to third, eight games behind the Brewers. While the focus will be on the bigger names on the roster, a reliever such as Winkler could be the type of addition the A’s need.
The Oakland A’s need help in the middle of their bullpen. Dan Winkler is the type of arm that would be an upgrade without costing much.