Athletics grab three RHPs in minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft

Jared Bloom

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Athletics grab three RHPs in minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft image

The Athletics were one of the lucky teams to have a spot in the Major League Rule 5 Draft. Here, they had the sixth overall pick, selecting RHP Ryan Watson from the San Francisco Giants. 

However, his time with the club would be cut short as he was dealt to the Boston Red Sox almost immediately. In exchange, the A's received infield prospect Justin Riemer, via Masslive's Chris Cotillo. 

The Red Sox got a player they were high on, while the A's received a player they do not have to keep on the 40-man roster. It was a win-win for both teams, especially with the A's having multiple selections in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 Draft. 

Athletics grab three RHPs in minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft

Moving on to the minor league portion of the Rule 5 Draft, the Athletics had the seventh overall pick. Here, they selected RHP Abel Mercedes from the Houston Astros. 

This will be considered a gamble as Mercedes has a ton of raw talent. He just needs to continue to develop, especially with his location around the zone. 

Later down the road, the A's took RHP Darlin Pinales from the Arizona Diamondbacks. He is considered a power arm, and like Mercedes, will have to continue to develop if he wants a chance to crack the big-league roster in the future. 

Lastly, the A's also took RHP Jorge Marcheco from the Los Angeles Angels. Unlike their previous two selections, Marcheco is not considered someone who throws very hard. 

Instead, he survives on deception and keeping batters on their toes. He is able to hide the ball well during his delivery and has great command of the zone. He could be someone who works their way up the system quickly despite being the A's last pick.

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Contributing Writer