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Lou Trivino could have large trade market for Oakland A’s

By David Hill

Aug 28, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Lou Trivino (62) throws in the bullpen before the game against the New York Yankees at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 28, 2021; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Lou Trivino (62) throws in the bullpen before the game against the New York Yankees at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Oakland A’s have received a great deal of attention over the past few weeks. Since it had been announced that they are looking to shed salary due to budgetary concerns, there have been plenty of rumors about which players will be dealt, and where they will end up. One player that could see more speculation surrounding them once the lockout comes to an end is closer Lou Trivino.

After years of being viewed as the A’s closer in waiting, Trivino finally ascended to that role in 2021. The 2021 season was a rollercoaster as Trivino was solid for the most part, but a disastrous three week stretch in August that doomed the A’s playoff hopes.

Lou Trivino could have surprising trade market

Trivino’s overall numbers were strong despite that implosion. He posted a respectable 3.18 ERA and a 1.249 WHiP in his 73.2 innings, notching 22 saves while striking out 67 batters and issuing 34 walks.

While those numbers may not have been dominant, Trivino has been able to minimize damage by limiting hard contact. That has especially been the case against righties, who have a meager 86.1 MPH average exit velocity against him over the past two years. He has generally shut down right handed hitters as well, holding them to a .196/.291/.291 batting line with just 22 extra base hits allowed in 535 plate appearances.

Trivino has also been durable during his time in the majors. He has yet to need a stint on the Injured List and has thrown more than 60 innings in each of his three full seasons. That type of durability has value, especially in a time when pitching injuries have been more prevalent.

Chances are, contending teams will not be looking at Trivino as a closer, instead regarding him as someone who can dominate right handed hitters in a setup role. However, with three years of team control left, he would be far more than a rental. That team control, and his ability to limit hard contact, could lead to a solid return if he was placed on the trade block.

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Every team is looking for opportunities to upgrade their bullpen. The Oakland A’s could get a strong return for Lou Trivino if he is available.