Teams in need of starting pitching probably should give Billy Beane and the Oakland Athletics a call before Monday’s non-waiver deadline.
There are no new specific deals linked to the A’s, but Oakland likely will trade right-hander Sonny Gray and “would definitely” deal left-hander Rich Hill after he recovers from his blister, according to The Boston Globe’s Nick Cafardo.
Gray has been linked to multiple trade rumors during his three-and-a-half seasons in Major League Baseball, but with the A’s struggling in 2016, it appears they are willing to sell off one of their best assets.
Gray had a Cy Young-worthy season last year with his 14-7 record and 2.73 ERA in 208 innings, but he hasn’t been his self for much of 2016. Gray made a trip to the 15-day disabled list due to a strained muscle, and his statistics — 5-9 record, 5.43 ERA — leave plenty to be desired.
It probably would be easier for teams to trade for Hill, though, unless they are willing to part with more in a deal for Gray. The 36-year-old is 9-3 with a 2.25 ERA in 14 starts.
Thumbnail photo via Tim Heitman/USA TODAY Sports Images
