Oakland A’s potential trade target: Miguel Rojas

Jul 10, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins shortstop Miguel Rojas (19) fields a ball against the Atlanta Braves during the ninth inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 10, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins shortstop Miguel Rojas (19) fields a ball against the Atlanta Braves during the ninth inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

The Oakland A’s are not going to be shopping at the top of the market when it comes to the trade deadline. Despite multiple needs on the roster, the A’s budgetary limitations are likely to force them to tinker around the edges, adding middle relievers and depth options.

One area where the A’s could use help is with their infield depth. While Elvis Andrus has played better of late, and Jed Lowrie has turned back the clock, neither are a given to continue this level of production. Finding a backup option in the middle of the infield would be helpful come the deadline. Enter Miguel Rojas.

Miguel Rojas a solid fit for Oakland A’s

The Marlins infielder is not someone who is going to draw a great deal of attention from casual baseball fans. However, the 32 year old infielder could be exactly what the A’s need, and as he has a team option for 2022, would be more than just a rental.

More from White Cleat Beat

Rojas would be an upgrade in every facet at short. He has produced a solid .271/.328/.411 batting line in his 305 plate appearances, hitting 20 doubles and five homers while stealing six bases. While he has drawn only 20 walks, Rojas has displayed solid contact skills with only 44 strikeouts thus far.

He is also an upgrade defensively. Not only does he have experience at every infield position, he has been an asset with the glove at every position. That is particularly the case at short, where he led the National League with eight runs saved at the position in 2020, and is second with another eight runs saved this season.

As the Marlins are looking to start selling off pieces, Rojas is the type of player that may slide under the radar. Teams are looking for middle infield help, but with some of the bigger names available, a player such as Rojas could be a steal if a team strikes early. This could be the perfect moment for the A’s to look to acquire such a player.

Miguel Rojas would be a perfect fit for the middle of the Oakland A’s infield. His defensive versatility and solid bat would be what they need.

Schedule