Oakland A's - Oakland Athletics Most Pressing Off - San Jose Mercury News - Season Issues

A's off-season issues

After successful your American League West subject which has a generally fresh team, that A's seem in very good condition for the future. But these people nevertheless include issues to deal with through offseason. Here's a review of their particular almost all important questions:

RE-SIGN STEPHEN DREW? Drew plus the A's maintain a $10 million shared selection pertaining to 2013, meaning both equally characteristics should be in accordance training it, if not they this team makes sense your ex boyfriend a $1.35 thousand buyout as well as he gets to be a free of charge agent. The A's can nonetheless make an effort to re-sign this shortstop in free agency. Drew is a smooth opponent plus observed his batting stroke when it comes to the final involving the actual season. If this individual leaves, the actual A's likely could observe a new shortstop outside the business or maybe shift Cliff Pennington from second returning to short.

CLUBHOUSE CHEMISTRY? The A's had a fantastic clubhouse vibe, and online players trust that was a huge cause for their own 94-68 record. If they want for you to keep that, re-signing outfielder Jonny Gomes would have been a step throughout the proper direction. A's manager Bob Melvin as well as G.M. Billy Beane really want him or her back, but Gomes furthermore desire over your 279 at-bats your dog obtained this kind of season being a platoon player.

VETERAN PITCHING? Rookies Tommy Milone along with Jarrod Parker emerged while main contributors, in addition to many other rookies A.J. Griffin and Dan Straily proved promise. But this A's may choose to look at introducing a seasoned arm or two. They may possibly re-sign Brandon McCarthy, that expects for being 100 % power through originate training

after undergoing brain surgery. But shoulder troubles in addition help make your pet a new query mark. Bartolo Colon seems an extended shot.

POWER BAT? Yoenis Cespedes is often a bona fide power hitter, but Josh Reddick's late-season battles proved they most likely are not the right formula while in the No. 3 spot. The A's can use yet another significant bat, but in which would likely your dog always be plugged in? If the A's aren't marketed around the Brandon Moss/Chris Carter combo, they could look for a initial baseman.