Joe Wieland's long baseball odyssey is set to continue with a new franchise.
According to his minor league transaction log, Wieland has signed with the Oakland A's for the 2023 season. He is likely to serve as a minor league depth piece to be called upon in case of emergency.
Oakland A's add depth option in Joe Wieland
Wieland was once considered a top prospect, ranked as the 74th best prospect in the game by Baseball Prospectus ahead of the 2012 season. His excellent command and ability to generate strikeouts made him someone that appeared destined to be a solid middle of the rotation arm.
That never came to pass. Wieland struggled during his brief looks in the majors, posting a 6.32 ERA and a 1.519 WHiP in his 52.2 innings over parts of four seasons, striking out 39 batters with 19 walks. He had not appeared in the majors since making a spot start for the Mariners in 2016 when he allowed six runs on nine hits over five innings.
But that lack of major league success has not stopped Wieland from finding a job around the game. He has been a part of eight major league organizations now that he signed in Oakland while spending time in Japan, South Korea, and the independent leagues.
Chances are, Wieland will end up at Double-A or Triple-A to begin the 2023 season. He is not likely to see the majors unless something goes horrifically awry with the A's rotation. But he is still a solid depth option in case he is needed, a long time professional who can help the younger players in the A's system.
The Oakland A's have signed Joe Wieland to a minor league deal. He provides another depth option in case he will be needed.