Athletics Likely to Keep Trading, With Catcher Langeliers Potentially on Block

The Oakland Athletics appear poised to continue their fire-sale approach this offseason, even as the organization remains in transition at the executive level. Catcher Shea Langeliers is being viewed as a potential trade candidate, one of several assets the rebuilding franchise may look to move in pursuit of draft picks and young prospects.

The Front Office Void. Oakland's front office has been in limbo since the departure of David Forst in early August, leaving the team without a permanent president of baseball operations or general manager to chart the franchise's immediate direction. This uncertainty hasn't stopped expectations that the A's will continue shedding payroll and trading established players.

Langeliers' Profile. The young catcher represents the kind of controllable, under-30 talent that rebuilding teams often deal away when looking to reset. Langeliers has shown flashes at the big league level, making him an attractive target for contending clubs in need of depth at the position.

The Broader Fire Sale. Oakland has already made several significant trades and is expected to remain active on the market. With financial constraints and an organization in flux, the A's likely won't hold onto mid-level contributors if the return is adequate.

What to Watch. The team's next general manager hire will ultimately determine how aggressive Oakland becomes in the market. Langeliers may not be moved immediately, but he's clearly in the conversation as the A's weigh what to do with their roster. For bettors, this suggests Oakland will likely remain competitive in the "under" for win totals, as the team continues depleting its talent base.

Source: original report ↗