Athletics Pitching: 2026 Starting Options
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- The Oakland Athletics finished the 2025 season with a 76-86 record, a seven-game advancement over 2024.
- What: The Oakland A's are prioritizing adding a starting pitcher in the offseason.
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A’s Offseason Priority: Finding Pitching to complement Rising Offense
Table of Contents
The Oakland Athletics finished the 2025 season with a 76-86 record, a seven-game advancement over 2024. While a step in the right direction, the A’s recognize that sustained contention requires bolstering their starting rotation. With a potent offensive core already in place, adding a proven arm (or arms) is the clear priority for General Manager David Forst this offseason. However, the challenge lies in attracting pitchers to pitch at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, their temporary home until the move to Las Vegas in 2028.
The Offensive Foundation is Set
The A’s offense has emerged as a legitimate strength. Led by a young and exciting core, the team ranked among the top 10 in MLB in several key offensive categories in 2025. Key contributors include:
* Nick Kurtz: Emerging as a power threat.
* Jacob Wilson: A dynamic middle infielder.
* Brent Rooker: Consistent run producer.
* Shea Langeliers: Solidifying his role as the starting catcher.
* Tyler Soderstrom: Showing promise at first base.
* Lawrence Butler: Providing valuable outfield depth and power.
This offensive firepower provides a solid base for success, but it will be wasted without consistent, reliable pitching.
Rotation concerns: ERA and Experience
The 2025 A’s rotation struggled, posting a combined 4.85 ERA – the fourth-highest in Major League Baseball. The depth chart currently features:
* Luis Severino: A veteran presence with a proven track record.
* Jeffrey Springs: Another experienced starter,though with injury concerns.
* Luis Morales: Talented, but needs further development.
* Jacob Lopez: A prospect with potential.
* Jack Perkins: Seeking to establish himself at the Major League level.
* J.T.Ginn: Another young arm looking for consistency.
The reliance on inexperienced arms is a significant risk. The A’s need to add at least one, and possibly two, established starters to provide stability and leadership.
The West Sacramento Challenge
Sutter Health Park, the A’s temporary home, is notoriously hitter-amiable. This presents a challenge when recruiting free agent pitchers. As Forst acknowledged, ”Our park is not the easiest to pitch in for the next couple of years. I’m aware of that. But it’s definitely on our list.” Pitchers understandably prefer to pitch in ballparks that favor pitchers,and convincing them to pitch in West Sacramento will require a compelling offer and a clear vision for their role within the team.
Potential Pitching Targets
The A’s are unlikely to compete for top-tier free agents like Dylan Cease (who recently signed a seven-year, $210 million deal with the Blue Jays).Instead,they will focus on pitchers who represent value and have a chance to succeed in West Sacramento. Here are some potential targets, categorized by approach:
| Player | Position | Age (as of Nov 2025) | 2025 Stats (approx.) | Potential Fit | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blake Snell | LHP | ||||