Athletics to acquire Yan Gomes and Josh Harrison, per report
Washington’s massive trade deadline continues
The Oakland Athletics have a deal place to acquire catcher Yan Gomes and infielder Josh Harrison from the Washington Nationals, according to Jeff Passan of ESPN.com.
The Oakland A’s are in agreement on a deal to acquire infielder Josh Harrison and catcher Yan Gomes from the Washington Nationals. Deal is pending medicals.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 30, 2021
The Nationals, who have already parted with Max Scherzer, Trea Turner, Brad Hand, Kyle Schwarber, and Daniel Hudson, continue to unload key players by sending Harrison and Gomes out west.
Harrison has been on a tear this season, slashing .294/.366/.434 through 90 games. He has added 38 RBI, 25 walks, and 50 strikeouts along the way. The 11-year MLB veteran has spent the majority of 2021 at second base, though he has also appeared at third base and all three outfield positions.
Gomes, meanwhile, emerged as the top catcher on the market heading into the deadline. The backstop had been linked to many teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, but the Athletics ultimately formulated the best offer. The 34-year-old is having a strong season offensively as he is slashing .271/.323/.454 with nine homers, 35 RBI, 13 walks, and 47 strikeouts. A one-time All-Star, Gomes serves as a clear upgrade over current Oakland starter Sean Murphy.
The return for Washington has yet to be reported,