The Athletics are in a transition period, as they await the construction of their new stadium in Las Vegas. For now, staying in Sacramento, the Athletics aren't likely to be big spenders in free agency or the trade market.
At least, that's the case on paper. But some recent reports, including one from ESPN insider Buster Olney, indicate that the Athletics might be gearing up to spend this offseason.
Olney predicts that, whether it's by way of trades or free agent deals, the Athletics could spend enough to add upwards of $30 million to the payroll for the 2026 season.
ESPN insider makes unexpected Athletics $30 million prediction
"We aren't accustomed to seeing the Pirates, Marlins, or A's among the most aggressive teams, but they seem to be like college freshman holding credit cards for the first time," Olney writes, "some agents think they'll add something in the range of $25 million to $30 million in payroll, either in salaries acquired through trades or in free agency."
The Athletics spending $30 million this winter might not be such an outlandish outcome, according to Olney's report. While the Miami Marlins and Pittsburgh Pirates are typically among the cheapest rosters in baseball, some money could be spent this winter.
For the Athletics, adding players to the roster through a trade, either as a salary dump or otherwise, could be a way to add some interesting names to the lineup or rotation while showing a willingness to spend going forward.
While there's no telling what these moves could look like, or how real and long-term the spending on these teams could be, it's at least a sign that they're open to spending some money over the offseason to improve the roster.
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The Athletics tried with Luis Severino last offseason, but he was not happy with the field in Sacramento, and is now a trade candidate.
If his $20 million comes off the books, and the Athletics are still planning to add at least $25 million to the payroll, some big moves could be on the horizon for the Athletics.
Players like Nick Castellanos, who's a trade candidate owed $20 million by the Philadelphia Phillies, could be realistic trade targets for the Athletics to boost their payroll, potentially take on a prospect, and add an experienced player to the roster.
The 2025-2026 offseason is looking to be a more active one than usual for the Athletics, as they're reportedly looking to add a decent amount to their payroll this winter.
More Athletics News:
- Athletics projected to add former Angels utility player over the offseason
- Athletics sign former Nationals breakout star from Mets system
- Athletics designate former first-round draft pick for assignment
- Athletics projected to shake up its starting rotation by adding former Padres' arm
- Athletics trying to trade former Mets, Yankees $67 million starter
- Ex-Cy Young Award winner Sandy Alcantara named a trade target for the Athletics