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3 unexpected building blocks for Oakland A’s

By David Hill

May 20, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Paul Blackburn (58) throws in the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
May 20, 2022; Anaheim, California, USA; Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Paul Blackburn (58) throws in the first inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports /

Dany Jimenez

The Oakland A’s had wanted Dany Jimenez for years. They finally landed him this offseason and have not looked back.

Jimenez was briefly a member of the A’s before. He had been selected in the Rule V Draft, but returned to the Blue Jays after he failed to earn a spot on the A’s major league roster. However, they were quick to sign him as a minor league free agent after the 2021 season, giving him a chance in what promised to be a wide open bullpen.

Jimenez had actually seen time in the majors before. He had been selected by the Giants in the Rule V Draft ahead of the 2020 season, making two appearances before being sent back to Toronto. His high octane fastball had intrigued for years, but he just was unable to put it all together.

That has happened with the A’s. He has emerged as their closer, seizing the role when Lou Trivino was sidelined. Jimenez has posted a 0.55 ERA and a 0.918 WHiP in his 16.1 innings this year, notching eight saves as he has struck out 17 batters with five walks. He has gone from being a question mark to cementing his place as the A’s closer of the present and future.

Dany Jimenez had been atop the Oakland A’s wish list for years. His performance thus far is showing why he was so coveted.