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Jesus Aguilar could make sense as Oakland A’s free agent target

By David Hill

Aug 24, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Miami Marlins first baseman Jesus Aguilar (99) returns to the dugout after the second inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 24, 2022; Oakland, California, USA; Miami Marlins first baseman Jesus Aguilar (99) returns to the dugout after the second inning at RingCentral Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Oakland A’s are going to be shopping on the margins when it comes to free agency. Ownership is not likely to be spending any time soon, and as the A’s have plenty of holes on their roster, it will be a matter of finding bargains and those who could be had for minimal cost.

That was the idea when MLB.com looked at a free agent each team should sign. They listed Jesus Aguilar as a match for the A’s, citing the A’s lack of power and the need for a stopgap solution at the position.

Jesus Aguilar interesting option for Oakland A’s

Aguilar had been a viable power threat earlier in his career. The former All Star has hit at least 20 homers twice in his career and was on pace for a third 20 home run season in the pandemic shortened 2020 campaign. He had belted 22 homers in 2021, showing that he still had the potential to make an impact in the lineup.

That was not the case last season. Aguilar saw his production fall off a cliff as he posted a combined .235/.281/.379 batting line in his 507 plate appearances between the Marlins and Orioles. Even then, his power was still evident as he hit 16 homers despite his struggles with the bat.

Those struggles make it probable that Aguilar would be looking at a low value contract this offseason, if not a minor league deal. For a team such as the A’s that are looking for possible bargains, it would make sense to give him a look next year.

The problem is Aguilar’s potential fit. Seth Brown had a strong showing in 2022 as the A’s primary first baseman. Dermis Garcia has plenty of power and may deserve a longer look in the lineup. Shea Langeliers could get time at first as well depending on what happens with Sean Murphy. There just may not be a place for Aguilar on the roster, even if he would seemingly be a good fit.

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Jesus Aguilar is considered to be the free agent that the Oakland A’s should sign. He makes sense but it is fair to wonder if there is a fit.