3 potential targets for Oakland A’s amongst remaining free agents
By David Hill
In one of the biggest surprises of the offseason, the Oakland A’s have actually spent money on their roster.
While no one is going to suddenly confuse A’s owner John Fisher for Steve Cohen, or John Sherman for that matter, actual major league talent has been brought in. Jace Peterson, Aledmys Diaz, Drew Rucinski, and Trevor May are all a higher caliber of free agent than anyone expected that the A’s would sign. None of these moves are bringing a playoff berth to Oakland in 2023, but they are far more than anyone could have expected.
Three potential targets for Oakland A’s remaining in free agency
It is possible that the A’s are not done. There are still holes on the roster, something that is to be expected considering that the A’s had gotten rid of most of their talent in the previous year. But this newfound willingness to spend, even if it is a modest amount, could mean that more players come on board.
The Oakland A’s may not be done adding to their roster. Let’s take a look at three options still in free agency they could bring on board.
Chad Pinder
Chad Pinder wanted to stay with the Oakland A’s. The A’s wanted Pinder to return to the organization. However, the expectation was that he would receive a better contract than the A’s could offer.
Although the calendar has flipped to 2023, Pinder is still on the market. All has been quiet in the rumor mill regarding Pinder as well as there have not been any teams officially connected to him. He would fit on several organizations, but to this point, there has been absolutely nothing.
It may not be that much of a surprise that his market is so quiet. Pinder struggled to an uncharacteristically subpar .235/.263/.385 batting line, hitting 12 homers and 18 doubles in his 379 plate appearances. He posted a career worst 3.7% walks rate with a 31.1% strikeout rate, numbers that kept him from his typically solid production.
But Pinder still holds value. He is capable of playing at either left or right field, second, third, and short. He is a leader in the locker room as well, something that is even more important for a rebuilding team such as the A’s. Considering the questions that are still on the roster, that versatility could be even more of an asset as well.
The Oakland A’s did not expect to bring Chad Pinder back for 2023. Considering how quiet his market has been, they may have a chance.