The Oakland A’s have already had an impressive trade deadline, having added Andrew Chafin and Starling Marte to bolster their bullpen and outfield respectively. While they could use some more depth, it was uncertain as to whether not the A’s would be able to add those other pieces.
As it turns out, the A’s had the pieces necessary. They have reportedly acquired Yan Gomes and Josh Harrison from the Nationals.
The Oakland A’s are in agreement on a deal to acquire infielder Josh Harrison and catcher Yan Gomes from the Washington Nationals. Deal is pending medicals.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 30, 2021
Oakland A’s get depth they desperately needed
The A’s interest in Gomes was first reported late on Thursday, but Harrison had slipped under the radar. However, given his ability to play multiple positions, he is a perfect fit for the roster, especially as the A’s infield depth has been lacking.
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Gomes is a major upgrade as the A’s backup catcher in virtually every possible way. He has produced a .271/.323/.454 batting line in his 235 plate appearances with nine homers and 11 doubles. Defensively, he has saved five runs behind the plate while throwing out 36% of would-be basestealers. Additionally, he would be a perfect veteran mentor for Sean Murphy to learn from.
Harrison has had a solid season in his own right. In his 359 plate appearances, he has produced a .294/.366/.434 batting line with six homers and 23 doubles while stealing five bases. Additionally, he has made appearances at second, third, and all three outfield spots this season, giving Bob Melvin more options for the lineup.
The A’s still hold a postseason berth, but their grasp has become more tenuous as time has gone on. As other teams had been improving to take a run at the playoffs, the A’s needed to as well. This trade furthers their improvement, as they have added more solid veterans to the roster.
The Oakland A’s have added some needed depth in Josh Harrison and Yan Gomes. Their roster has become more formidable over the past 24 hours.