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Oakland A’s say goodbye to Justin Grimm

By David Hill

May 14, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Justin Grimm (46) stands on the mound during the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Justin Grimm (46) stands on the mound during the sixth inning against the Los Angeles Angels at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports /
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Justin Grimm was exactly the type of offseason move that the Oakland A’s needed to make. He had been a solid major league veteran before struggling over the past few years, a valuable piece of the Cubs’ bullpen between 2013 and 2016. As the A’s were rebuilding and looking for possible bargains in the bullpen, Grimm was well worth the price of a minor league contract.

It was not that much of a surprise when he was a part of the Opening Day roster. Grimm could provide a steady veteran presence as the A’s cycled through arms, someone that could help get those younger pitchers acclimated to the majors. Meanwhile, he could pick up valuable innings should their starters struggle.

Oakland A’s no longer need Justin Grimm

That time is now at end. The A’s have designated Grimm for assignment, removing him from the roster to promote Austin Pruitt from Las Vegas.

Grimm’s performance does not exactly jump off the page. He produced a respectable 4.11 ERA, albeit with a 1.630 WHiP in his 15.1 innings, striking out 11 batters with seven walks. It may not have been pretty at times, but Grimm was still generating outs.

Pruitt simply has more upside. He had been a solid piece for the Rays before a fractured elbow cost him the 2020 season and part of 2021. Another minor league signing, Pruitt had posted a 3.27 ERA and a 1.000 WHiP in his 22 innings in Triple-A, striking out 20 batters with two walks. Add in his remaining years of team control, and it is understandable as to why the A’s would give him a look.

It is possible that Grimm remains in the system. If he is not claimed, he could end up in Triple-A, a depth piece ready to be called upon if need be. However, it seems more likely that his time with the A’s is over.

Next. Pinder could be an interesting trade candidate. dark

The Oakland A’s have designated Justin Grimm for assignment. He had been solid, but just did not process any upside for the organization.