The Oakland A’s are suddenly making moves to improve the major league roster.
Jace Peterson was signed on Tuesday, adding a viable major league option at third base while providing depth around the infield. Chad Smith was brought in to help fortify the bullpen in a strange trade. These move may not make much of a difference, but the A’s are actually spending money.
Oakland A’s continue surprising spending spree with Aledmys Diaz
The A’s are not done with their surprising decision to throw money at their roster. According to Joel Sherman from the New York Post, the A’s have signed Aledmys Diaz to a two year deal worth $14.5 million.
Diaz is another relatively solid player who can slot in virtually anywhere on the diamond. He made appearances at each infield position and both corner outfield positions last season, filling in as a super utility option on the Astros. Given the number of holes that the A’s have on the roster, he will get plenty of playing time.
He will also be an upgrade on the bench in terms of his production. Diaz posted a respectable .243/.287/.403 batting line in his 327 plate appearances, hitting 12 homers and 13 doubles. He will add some more pop to a lineup that is in desperate need of power outside of Seth Brown, Shea Langeliers, and Sean Murphy.
Chances are, Diaz will not make much of a difference in terms of the A’s hopes this year. The rest of the division has improved while the A’s are not making nearly the same caliber of moves. But they are spending money at least, something that is a marked departure from last season and any expectations.
The Oakland A’s are continuing to spend money on their major league roster. Aledmys Diaz adds another viable piece to the roster.