Looking ahead to 2009: Oakland Athletics

October 9, 9:46 PMMLB ExaminerAlex Brown

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The 2008 Oakland Athletics once again rebuilt on the fly, and were able to remain more competitive than most had predicted.  They jettisoned ace Dan Haren, outfielders Nick Swisher and Shannon Stewart, catcher Jason Kendall, and first baseman Dan Johnson – all were starters on the 2007 team.  The young players they received in the Haren and Swisher deals figure to be a part of future A’s success, that is, until they themselves become too expensive and are traded.

Catcher Kurt Suzuki had a solid year offensively and will be back as the starting catcher in 2009.  Backup Rob Bowen provided almost nothing, and could be replaced by a cheap veteran who can handle a young pitching staff.

Second baseman Mark Ellis is a free agent, and Oakland would like to re-sign him after a down year.  Shortstop Bobby Crosby finally remained healthy, but didn’t hit.  He could be dealt or released this offseason.  Third baseman Eric Chavez was hurt virtually all year and will have to remain healthy in 2009 because Jack Hannahan didn’t cut it filling in.  Top first base prospect Daric Barton disappointed in his first year as a starter, but the club is likely to be patient with him going forward.

Young outfielders Ryan Sweeney (Swisher deal) and Carlos Gonzalez (Haren deal) should start in 2009.  Both showed flashes of brilliance in 2008, but are not complete players yet.  Jack Cust is an adventure in the outfield defensively, but is the club’s only consistent home run threat.  He could be moved to DH if the A’s find another outfielder.  Young Aaron Cunningham could figure in, though it’s doubtful that the club would go with three young outfielders.

Justin Duchscherer moved from the bullpen to the rotation, and pitched very well (earning his second All-Star appearance.  Greg Smith (Haren deal) pitched well in his rookie season and should nail down a spot.  Dana Eveland (Haren), Dallas Braden, Sean Gallagher, and Gio Gonzalez (Swisher) will compete for the remaining three spots.

Closer Huston Street lost his job in 2008, and is a candidate for an offseason deal.  Alan Embree wants to be back, but could be too expensive for the A’s to keep.  Santiago Casilla, Joey Devine, and Brad Ziegler were lights out late in games and will be counted on to repeat their success.

The Oakland A’s continue to restock their farm system while remaining on a low budget year to year.  Small steps backward such as 2008 will happen when you operate this way, but look for 2009 to show the rewards of good scouting.