Oakland A's 2023 MLB Trade Deadline Preview: You should trade for Paul Blackburn!

Some would say this is a season to forget in Oakland Athletics lore. Some would say it is not. One thing is clear, and that is the fact that the A's might actually be on the verge of making history with their current 30-77 record and looking at beating all prior (bad) records.

The A's are on their way to battle for supremacy against the ghosts of Mets and Tigers lore. They are fighting to try and (not) finish with a record for the ages, the worst ever put together in MLB history.

One thing they can do to help (or not, or maybe it doesn't matter at all) them in accomplishing that, is making some trades and transactions ahead of the deadline on Tuesday, Aug. 1.

What about Paul Blackbourn? May I entertain your ballclub in trading for the former All-Star starter and Athletics' standout?

Blackburn is north to south, left to right, the best player currently rostered by the A's. That's enough for you to consider trading for him, isn't it? I bet you wouldn't hesitate to trade for, say, the best Angels players these days, right? So what's the difference between trading for another "best player," only changing ballclubs? Nothing!

Paul B also comes with the benefit of having a rather nice and team-friendly deal. Such a good kid is he! He's also controllable for a few seasons, not like those pesky rentals that will populate the open market at the start of August and then again come October.

Blackburn comes with a packed arsenal of pitchers, would only cost you something in the ballpark of a top-10 to top-15 prospect in your system, and will arrive at the presentation at your clubhouse sporting a 2022 All-Star pin. Can't ask for more, can you!?

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