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Oakland A’s: Three realistic free agents to keep

By David Hill

Aug 10, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Oakland Athletics second baseman Josh Harrison (1) scores in the second inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 10, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Oakland Athletics second baseman Josh Harrison (1) scores in the second inning against the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

Mark Canha

While Starling Marte may be the Oakland A’s most important impending free agent, Mark Canha is a close second.

An underrated part of the lineup, Canha has been key as the A’s leadoff hitter. His ability to get on base, either via walk or being hit by a pitch, has made him one of the more valuable players on the team. With solid pop and decent speed to go along with those on base skills, Canha has been what the A’s need.

He certainly has made his presence felt for the A’s this year. Canha has produced a solid .237/.366/.398 batting line, hitting 12 homers and 19 doubles while stealing 11 bases. Meanwhile, he has been excellent defensively, saving six runs in left, and eight runs in total during his time in the outfield.

Of all the impending free agents on the A’s, Canha is likely to attract the most attention of anyone outside of Marte. While other players may be a relative bargain in free agency, ownership will likely need to open the checkbook more than they may want to keep Canha in town. However, he may be more valuable to the A’s than to any other team, making him someone that the franchise needs to find a way to keep.

Next. A difficult decision to make on Canha. dark

Mark Canha has been a key piece for the Oakland A’s over the years. That should not end after this season.