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Oakland A’s rightly asking for huge return for Matt Olson

By David Hill

Sep 27, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson (28) throws the ball around before a game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. The Mariners won 13-4. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 27, 2021; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oakland Athletics first baseman Matt Olson (28) throws the ball around before a game against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. The Mariners won 13-4. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Oakland A’s are expected to be trading anyone possible this offseason. It is, as they indicated, a part of their cycle – they build a strong core, contend for a few seasons, and then tear it apart to rebuild their farm system. But the A’s are not just going to give their players away. That is particularly the case with Matt Olson.

Olson could be the type of player that can change the A’s farm system for years. As such, according to Jon Heyman, the A’s have a sky high asking price for his services.

Oakland A’s have high expectations for Matt Olson deal

Even with Freddie Freeman in free agency, one could make the argument that Olson is the best first baseman available. He produced a .271/.371/.540 batting line, hitting 39 homers and 35 doubles. He made his first All Star Game, finished eighth in the MVP vote, and was one of the finalists for the Gold Glove at first.

While the 2021 campaign was easily a career year for Olson, it only further proved the type of player he is. One of the best defensive first basemen in the game, he has also been a fearsome power hitter, someone who can make a major difference in the middle of a lineup.

There are several teams that could use help at first. The Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs, and Rays, amongst others, all could use an upgrade. There are not many options to choose from in free agency that would make a significant difference, allowing the A’s to set their sites as high as they want.

It is certainly possible that some team meets those demands. The pressure to win, and Olson’s two remaining years of team control, can be a strong motivator. Olson can be a game changer, someone who can change the complexion of a lineup. The A’s have to get as much as possible for him.

dark. Next. Mariners eyeing several A's players

The Oakland A’s have sky high demands for Matt Olson in regards to a possible trade. He is the type of player whose return could change the franchise.