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Sean Murphy trade rumors: Oakland A’s catcher generating interest

By David Hill

Jul 24, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics designated hitter Sean Murphy (12) gestures in front of Texas Rangers catcher Jonah Heim (28) after hitting a solo home run during the ninth inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 24, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Oakland Athletics designated hitter Sean Murphy (12) gestures in front of Texas Rangers catcher Jonah Heim (28) after hitting a solo home run during the ninth inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Oakland A’s catching prospect riches have potentially made Sean Murphy available on the trade block. As he has years of team control left and a great deal of power, it would not be a surprise if almost every team would be checking on his availability.

That is proving to be the case. According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the A’s are receiving plenty of interest in Murphy as other teams are looking to improve their catching situation.

Oakland A’s receiving calls on Sean Murphy

It is not a surprise that the A’s would be willing to part with Murphy. The major league ready presence of Shea Langeliers has made Murphy somewhat expendable. Likewise, the A’s also have another top catching prospect in Tyler Soderstrom and selected another catcher, Daniel Susac, with the 19th selection in the 2022 MLB Draft. They have plenty of prospect depth in their system to afford to move Murphy.

Likewise, he is the type of player that would generate a solid return. He has been the A’s best hitter, posting a 117 OPS+ in his 360 plate appearances, hitting 11 homers and 23 doubles. His strikeout rate has steadily decreased as he has continued to hit the ball hard. Add in his Gold Glove caliber defense and three years of team control, and he should bring back an impressive return.

Murphy is also not just a target for contending teams. Teams that have an eye towards contending in 2023 or 2024 could look to bring him in as well, solidifying a position that can be an ongoing problem for years.

This should work out to the A’s advantage. With so many teams theoretically in the market for a catcher, they should be able to bring back a significant return. Hopefully this time, they realize that they need prospects in places other than behind the plate.

Next. 3 potential landing spots for Sean Murphy. dark

Sean Murphy is generating a great deal of interest ahead of the trade deadline. The Oakland A’s could get a significant return if he is sent elsewhere.