Athletics Looking To Add Another Starter, Eyeing Wheeler Among Targets

Even after acquiring starting pitcher Homer Bailey and relief pitcher Jake Diekman, both from the Royals, the Athletics are reportedly not done shopping, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic.

The Athletics, who currently sit eight games out of first place and just a half-game out of a Wild Card spot, are looking to add another starting pitcher, per Rosenthal. Among the targets on the trade block, he notes that they have shown interest in the Mets’ Zack Wheeler, as well as the Reds’ Tanner Roark.

Wheeler’s trade value heading towards the deadline appeared to be in jeopardy after he landed on the injured list with right shoulder fatigue, but he made a relatively quick return, providing a solid start on Friday in his first start back. Now that he has shown he is healthy, teams are much more likely to go after him.

The Athletics in particular could use a strong mid-rotation arm like Wheeler down the stretch if they are serious at making a playoff run. Their current rotation features Mike Fiers, Brett Anderson, Chris Bassitt, Daniel Mengden, and the newly acquired Bailey. They won’t necessarily be able to rely on a rotation anchored by aging veterans, so acquiring Wheeler would definitely be a huge help to solidify their rotation.

With Wheeler’s trade value on the rise again, it will be very interesting to see where he winds up, and clearly Oakland is a very possible destination.