Edwin Rios could be perfect option for Oakland A’s

The Oakland A’s quest to scour free agency for bargains could result in a long term solution in the lineup.

Martin Gallegos took at look at free agents that the A’s could consider this offseason as they continue to look for those bargains. One player in particular, Edwin Rios, would appear to be a perfect fit in Oakland.

Edwin Rios makes sense for Oakland A’s

Rios has one particular trait that the A’s are lacking – a powerful bat. He has 104 homers during his six years in the minors, including 59 home runs and 78 doubles in his 1193 Triple-A plate appearances. That sort of performance should get a look at the major league level.

The problem is that Rios had been blocked with the Dodgers. He was unable to get much of a chance at the major league level, posting a .219/.299/.492 batting line in his 291 plate appearances over four years, hitting 20 homers. That type of power would be of use on most teams.

Such is the case with the A’s. There are openings at both first and third depending on what the A’s do with Seth Brown, who could slot into the outfield. Likewise, the A’s could have an opening at the designated hitter spot, opening up more plate appearances for someone such as Rios.

This is also the type of player that the A’s should be looking at. Rios still has three more years of control left, making him a longer term option. He has some flexibility in his ability to play first and third and has spent some time in left during his minor league career. Rios could make an impact on the A’s if they were to bring him on board.

The Oakland A’s need to find possible long term answers throughout their roster. It would make sense to give Edwin Rios a chance.