Chris Bassitt
Chris Bassitt got a chance to stick in the Oakland A’s rotation last season due to injuries. He made the most of his opportunity, establishing himself as a somewhat unconventional staff ace.
Bassitt followed up his breakout 2020 season with an impressive showing last year. He made his first All Star Game, posting a 3.15 ERA and a 1.055 WHiP over his 157.1 innings, striking out 159 batters with just 39 walks. Although he does not have the best stuff, his excellent command and groundball tendencies have turned him into a top of the rotation starter.
He also showed his toughness last season. The only thing that slowed him down was a line drive that struck him in the face, resulting in several facial fractures that required surgery. Even though the A’s were essentially out of the playoff hunt, Bassitt returned at the end of the year, making two more starts in an attempt to give the team a needed spark.
Bassitt is on the older side – he will turn 33 before the start of the 2022 season. He also has just one more year of team control left. However, he does not have a lot of innings on his arm, and as a late bloomer, could just be getting started. His stature as a top of the rotation arm will lead to plenty of offers if he comes available.
Chris Bassitt has emerged as the ace of the Oakland A’s. It would not be a surprise if another team acquired him to take over that role.