The Oakland Athletics are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season, with their sights set on further strengthening their rotation. Despite already making significant moves in the offseason, including adding pitchers Luis Severino and Jeffrey Springs, along with infielder Gio Urshela and extending Brent Rooker, the A’s are not done yet. With approximately $8 million left to reach the $105 million luxury tax threshold required for revenue sharing, General Manager David Forst is contemplating additional acquisitions to bolster the team’s pitching staff.
Chris Paddack: A Potential Gem for the A’s
One intriguing option for the A’s pitching rotation is Minnesota Twins starter Chris Paddack. The right-handed pitcher, owed around $7.5 million for the 2025 season, could fit well within the A’s financial framework. Despite some inconsistencies in his performance over the past three seasons, Paddack’s potential makes him an attractive target for Oakland. With only one year remaining on his current contract, acquiring Paddack could be a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for the A’s.
Paddack’s limited appearances and a 4.84 ERA may raise some concerns, but his ability to strike out batters adds a valuable dimension to his pitching arsenal. The A’s could benefit from Paddack’s versatility by utilizing him in a long relief role, allowing him to gradually increase his workload and potentially enhance his on-field effectiveness. Moreover, a trade for Paddack might not require a substantial return, given the Twins’ current ownership situation, presenting the A’s with a favorable bargaining position.
Exploring Free Agent Options: Andrew Heaney and Cal Quantrill
Apart from potential trade targets, the A’s are also considering free agent pitchers to further solidify their rotation. Left-hander Andrew Heaney, despite approaching his mid-thirties, showcased impressive performance with the Texas Rangers last season. With a notable track record of strikeouts and innings pitched, Heaney could slot in as a reliable mid-tier starter for the A’s, contributing to their pursuit of a competitive win-loss record.
On the other hand, right-hander Cal Quantrill presents an intriguing opportunity for the A’s. Following a mixed performance with the Colorado Rockies in 2024, Quantrill’s availability as a free agent offers the A’s a chance to tap into his potential. His prior success with the Cleveland Guardians, coupled with his ties to Northern California, make Quantrill a compelling choice for Oakland. Embracing a role that accommodates the team’s needs, such as long relief or spot starts, Quantrill could bring depth and flexibility to the A’s pitching staff.
Timing Is Key: Decisive Moves on the Horizon
As the countdown to the commencement of the new season narrows down, the A’s face a time-sensitive decision-making process. With pitchers and catchers scheduled to report for duty in less than a month, Oakland must act swiftly to finalize their roster adjustments. The urgency to secure additional pitching talent underscores the team’s commitment to assembling a competitive and well-rounded squad for the upcoming campaign.
In conclusion, the Oakland Athletics’ strategic pursuit of ‘buy-low’ pitchers underscores their ambition to craft a formidable 2025 rotation. By evaluating a diverse range of options—from trade targets like Chris Paddack to free agent contenders such as Andrew Heaney and Cal Quantrill—the A’s are poised to make calculated moves that align with their long-term objectives. As they navigate the intricate landscape of player acquisitions, Oakland stands on the cusp of fortifying their pitching staff and propelling themselves towards a successful season ahead.