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Oakland A’s taking chance on Parker Markel

By David Hill

Aug 4, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Parker Markel (49) pitches against the New York Mets during the eighth inning at PNC Park. The Mets won 13-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 4, 2019; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Parker Markel (49) pitches against the New York Mets during the eighth inning at PNC Park. The Mets won 13-2. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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As major league signings are on hold due to the lockout, teams are going to take chances on players that could make an impact. Sometimes, that means looking beyond the stats and hoping that their pure stuff or advanced matrics indicate that a breakout could happen. However, those signings are not likely to draw much in the way of interest from the fans.

Such is the case with Parker Markel. The Oakland A’s have reportedly signed the long time minor league veteran to a minor league deal.

Oakland A’s taking a look at Parker Markel

Markel does have some major league experience, spending part of 2019 in the majors with the Mariners and Pirates. He was unable to find much success in that stint, posting a combined 7.77 ERA and a 1.955 WHiP in his 22 innings. While he struck out 24 batters, he was hindered by his lack of command as he issued 17 walks.

He has had a much better track record in Triple-A. Markel has posted a 3.23 ERA and a 1.324 WHiP in his 158.2 innings at the highest level of the minors. However, his command has continued to be an issue there as well, as he has struck out 202 batters, but issued 98 walks.

There is no questioning his stuff. He has a mid 90s fastball and a solid slider that has been able to generate plenty of swings and misses. That has led the Rays, Mariners, Pirates, Angels, and Padres to give him a look in hope that they can be the one to harness his arsenal.

Now it is the A’s turn. He is certainly worth a look, especially given the number of openings that could be in the bullpen this year. If nothing else, he is a solid depth piece to stash at Triple-A in case he is needed.

Next. A Luke Voit lottery ticket. dark

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The Oakland A’s are giving Parker Markel a look as he signed a minor league deal. There is certainly no harm in taking chance on his potential.