The Oakland Athletics haven’t made a significant addition to their starting rotation, which finished 27th in the majors with a 4.85 ERA last season. Even with potential growth from Jacob Lopez and Luis Morales, another proven arm is crucial.
A’s Seek Rotation Help, Angels Eye Center Field, and More MLB Offseason Targets
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Teams across Major League Baseball are navigating the final stages of the offseason, addressing key needs as spring training approaches.
- The Athletics are prioritizing starting pitching to bolster a struggling unit.
- The Los Angeles Angels are focused on finding a reliable center fielder to protect Mike Trout’s health.
- The Seattle Mariners are seeking infield upgrades beyond their established starters.
- The Texas Rangers need to reinforce their starting rotation, anticipating challenges with age and workload.
What’s the biggest need for the Oakland Athletics this offseason? Adding a veteran starting pitcher is paramount, with Chris Bassitt, Zack Littell, and Nick Martinez among the potential targets.
Astros’ Needs Appear Limited
The Houston Astros, meanwhile, seem content with their current roster. Assuming satisfaction with their options in center field and right field – Jesús Sánchez, Jake Meyers, Cam Smith, and Zach Cole – and their rotation depth (Mike Burrows, Ryan Weiss, Lance McCullers Jr., Jason Alexander, Nate Pearson, and Spencer Arrighetti), their primary focus may be a backup catcher. A reunion with Victor Caratini is possible, alongside options like Jonah Heim and Reese McGuire.
Angels Prioritize Trout’s Health with Center Field Upgrade
For the Los Angeles Angels, keeping Mike Trout healthy is paramount, and that means limiting his time in the field. Jo Adell’s defensive struggles in center field in 2025 (-13 DRS, -8 OAA) highlight a glaring need. Harrison Bader is a potential solution, while Chas McCormick offers buy-low upside, though a trade is likely the preferred route. The Angels are reportedly considering outfielder Lars Nootbaar as a trade target.
Mariners Look to Solidify Infield
The Seattle Mariners have a solid foundation with Josh Naylor at first base and J.P. Crawford at shortstop, but the rest of their infield remains a question mark. Cole Young, Ben Williamson, Leo Rivas, and top prospect Colt Emerson are in the mix, but versatile players like Willi Castro, Luis Rengifo, Ramón Urías, and Brendan Donovan could provide immediate upgrades. Willi Castro emerges as a logical target for the Mariners.
Rangers Face Rotation Questions
The Texas Rangers enjoyed a strong 2025 season thanks in part to veterans Jacob deGrom and Nathan Eovaldi, combining for 52 starts and 302.2 innings. However, relying on those two pitchers to repeat that performance at ages 37 and 35, respectively, is a gamble. The Rangers could target the same mid-tier starters as the Athletics – Chris Bassitt, Zack Littell, and Nick Martinez – or aim higher for someone like Zac Gallen or Lucas Giolito. Lucas Giolito is identified as a logical target for the Rangers.
