The Oakland A’s are going to be one of the more fascinating teams at the trade deadline. While they have a myriad of holes on the roster, and have continually been linked to Trevor Story, there are questions as to whether or not the A’s will actually do much at the deadline. Financial issues and a lack of top end prospects could limit their ability to improve the roster.
That is perfectly acceptable to manager Bob Melvin. He, for one, is not overly concerned if the A’s make a trade or not.
Bob Melvin on the Trade Deadline: "If we make a move, great. If not, I'm not disappointed.. I do know we’re looking. It feels like there might be more moves towards the end.. In our case, if we do something, It might be right before the deadline.”
— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) July 25, 2021
Bob Melvin ready to battle with current Oakland A’s roster
It makes sense that Melvin would say such things, at least publicly. He has been a part of the franchise for over a decade, which is more than enough time to understand how things work in Oakland. Financial concerns are a constant issue and will continue to win out.
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Likewise, the A’s are going to focus on getting the best deal possible. As the deadline gets closer, the asking price for a selling team could decrease enough where the A’s would be able to afford the cost in terms of prospects. Those needed upgrades could still happen, even if it is minutes before the deadline is over.
But there is plenty of reason for Melvin to be confident in his team. Even with injuries and inconsistency from the bullpen, the A’s hold a playoff spot. Getting the team healthy, particularly in the outfield, and finding something to handle the middle innings in the bullpen would go a long way.
Those pieces could be in the minors. If Jesus Luzardo and A.J. Puk can get themselves back on track, they would be the bullpen upgrades that the A’s need. The A’s could mix and match their outfield enough to get sufficient production. But that is a lot to hope for.
Oakland A’s manager Bob Melvin is mentally prepared for the team to stand pat. He is confident that the A’s can compete as they currently are.