Oakland A’s should explore Max Scherzer trade

Jul 8, 2021; San Diego, California, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) walks to the dugout after being replaced during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 8, 2021; San Diego, California, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) walks to the dugout after being replaced during the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

The biggest problem facing the Oakland A’s over the past few seasons has been a lack of a true ace atop their rotation. While they have a solid pitching staff, capable of reaching the postseason, missing that ace has hindered their ability to advance. It is just a matter of finding that ace to fill that void.

There is a possible solution on the horizon. The Washington Nationals are ready to sell, and that includes putting Max Scherzer on the trade block. He has made it known that he could waive his no-trade clause under the right circumstances, which would likely involve a trade to the west coast.

Oakland A’s should enter Max Scherzer sweepstakes

At this point, the A’s are not one of the teams known to be involved in a potential deal for Scherzer. The three top teams in the NL West are all vying for his services. Likewise, the Astros are one of the teams involved, which would be a tremendous blow to the A’s hopes to seize the divisional crown.

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But that does not mean only those eight teams will be involved. The A’s could easily enter that sweepstakes, looking to add Scherzer to an already solid rotation. His presence would help stabilize the rotation, allowing Chris Bassitt and Sean Manaea to slot in as their second and third starters. Such a top three would be formidable in a short series.

Even with his injury concerns this year, Scherzer would be a tremendous upgrade for whichever team acquires him. He has posted a 2.83 ERA and a 0.886 WHiP in his 105 innings, striking out 142 batters with 25 walks. Scherzer has also been through the postseason battles before, winning a championship in 2019. He knows what it takes to advance in the playoffs.

In the end, it will come down to cost. Scherzer is easily the best pitcher available, and will command a hefty return. While the A’s may not have the top prospects of some of those other teams, they do have players that are close to major league ready, especially on the pitching side. It certainly would not hurt to explore his market and to try to bring him on board.

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The Oakland A’s are not yet a part of the Max Scherzer sweepstakes. Considering how much the lack of an ace has hurt in the past, that needs to change.