Ex-MLB GM views the Athletics as a potential fit to acquire former Reds closer

Jared Bloom

Ex-MLB GM views the Athletics as a potential fit to acquire former Reds closer  image

While the Athletics are coming off their best record since the 2021 season, it was not enough to get them into the postseason. They finished the regular season with a 76-86 record, which was good for fourth in the AL West. 

The A's received phenomenal play from their youngsters, like Nick Kurtz, who is in the running to win the AL Rookie of the Year award with his 36 home runs this year. However, they did lose a key piece to their bullpen at the trade deadline. 

The San Diego Padres were able to acquire Mason Miller by trading away top prospect Leo De Vries, Braden Nett, Henry Baez, and Eduarniel Nunez to the Athletics. Now, the A's will turn to the open market to restructure their bullpen after dealing Miller. 

Ex-MLB GM views the Athletics as a potential fit to acquire former Reds closer 

Multiple relief pitchers will be made available in free agency when the season concludes. Devin Williams, Ryan Helsley, and Tyler Rogers will all be on the open market, and so will Edwin Diaz and Robert Suarez if they decide to opt out. 

Raisel Iglesias will also be on the open market, and he could generate quite the buzz. Former MLB GM Jim Bowden points to the Athletics as being a team to watch out for here and gives Iglesias a two-year, $24 million contract prediction. 

Having one of the lowest guaranteed payrolls gives them the flexibility to add an impact player like this. Iglesias racked up 29 saves with the Atlanta Braves in 2025 and could be an excellent Mason Miller replacement if the A's decide to go that route. 

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