The Oakland Athletics traded third baseman Josh Donaldson, first baseman/outfielder Brandon Moss and starting pitcher Jeff Samardzija this offseason and received a number of talented players in return, but was it enough?
General manager Billy Beane spoke with Joe Stiglich of CSN Bay Area during the Winter Meetings and was candid about the young players he received in the various trades he made this offseason. Although other industry scouts weren't "blown away" with the return, with one even saying he was "underwhelmed" with who Oakland got for Samardzija, it's too early to tell.
What we do know is that the Athletics' scouting department has been keeping an eye on the players they received for quite a while and they're happy with what they've got. One player that Beane specifically mentioned was Marcus Semien, who was acquired from the White Sox for Samardzija. He told Stiglich that Semien has "20 home run potential" and he's not concerned with his ability to play shortstop. They also received right-hander Chris Bassitt in the deal, who Beane thinks can compete for a spot in the starting rotation in 2015.
On top of that, Oakland welcomed infielder Brett Lawrie and prospects Kendall Graveman, Sean Nolin and Franklin Barreto when they traded third baseman Josh Donaldson to the Toronto Blue Jays. Prospect second baseman Joe Wendle also came over from the Cleveland Indians in exchange for first baseman/outfielder Brandon Moss.
Stiglich notes the rebuilding part of the offseason is likely done for Oakland and they're now looking to add for next year's team since they have some cash to work with. Lawrie and Semien will probably be starting on the left side of the infield on Opening Day, but Beane noted there may be some "unfinished business" right now at second base, which could be the next area they address. Many believed they would sign Asdrubal Cabrera or Korean infielder Jung-ho Kang, but Cabrera signed with the Rays and Kang is negotiating with the Pirates.
There are few options available on the free agent market, so it's possible Beane looks to explore another trade. Unfortunately the A's needed to trade away these players because they're unaffordable for such a small market franchise. Beane did his usual tinkering and filled the team's needs with young, cost-effective talent.
