Oakland A’s have five most likely to be traded players
It is not a secret that the Oakland A’s want to slash payroll once the lockout ends. This is simply what they do – they build a core, and once it gets too expensive to maintain, they trade those players for prospects and start the cycle all over again.
On Tuesday, MLB Trade Rumors took a look at the 14 players most likely to be traded when the lockout is finally over. While only five members of the A’s were listed, those players took up the first five spots on the list.
Oakland A’s have top five most likely to be traded players
None of those names are overly shocking. Matt Chapman and Matt Olson are expected to have a hot market once transactions are permitted again. The same can be said for Sean Manaea and Chris Bassitt. Lou Trivino may have had a rough two or three weeks as the A’s closer, but plenty of teams are on the search for bullpen help.
The only real surprise is that more players are not listed. Frankie Montas is also going to receive plenty of interest on the trade market, and given that he would not be a rental, could bring back a significant return.
The same could be said for Ramon Laureano. While there is the added issue of his PED suspension, which still has approximately three weeks left to be served, there are plenty of teams searching for a centerfielder. Nonetheless, his all around game offensively and excellent defense should generate interest.
There is no guarantee that these players will be gone the second that the lockout is over. Deals could take some time, with talks extending through spring training and into the season. Ownership could even change their mind, as unlikely as that may be, and keep the roster together. However, it is clear that a fire sale is likely to come to Oakland, with many of the A’s top players being sent away.
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Changes are coming to the Oakland A’s. It should not be much of a surprise that they have the five players most likely to be traded.