Former Oakland A’s reliever Jake Diekman heading to Boston Red Sox
By David Hill
Everyone knew that the Oakland A’s were not keeping the majority of their free agents. Even seemingly inexpensive deals are more than they are willing to shell out as they are looking to dump anyone that is expected to make a reasonable salary. And free agents that they sign to fill out the roster will likely involve scrapping the bottom of the barrel.
It is not a surprise that the A’s own free agents are finding greener pastures and fatter bank accounts elsewhere. Jake Diekman has become the latest member of the A’s free agent class to defect as he has reportedly signed with the Boston Red Sox.
Jake Diekman leaves Oakland A’s for Boston Red Sox
Diekman was clearly one of the top left handed relievers in free agency. Although he was unable to replicate his otherworldly 2020 campaign, he still posted a solid 3.86 ERA and a 1.335 WHiP in his 60.2 innings, striking out 83 batters. However, he also issued 34 walks and allowed ten homers.
That is the biggest problem with Diekman. He is a rarity in that he is a lefty with true swing and miss stuff, a reliever that can dominate when he is right. However, that does not happen often enough, as his command is shaky at best. That includes leaving pitches over the middle of the plate or being unable to find the strike zone – sometimes both in the same outing.
Even with those concerns, Diekman can make an impact. He is a solid option in the back of a bullpen, someone who can be a weapon against tough lefty hitters. As the Red Sox are looking to return to the postseason in a tougher AL East, adding the likes of Diekman can make a difference.
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Another Oakland A’s free agent has left for greener pastures and a fatter bank account. Jake Diekman has signed with the Boston Red Sox.