The Athletics pulled off one of the more stunning moves of recent MLB trade deadlines, shipping off Mason Miller to the San Diego Padres for a massive haul headlined by top prospect Leo De Vries.
But, in the wake of this deal, the Athletics desperately need to address their bullpen. While 2026 might not be a World Series-contending year for the Athletics, adding a reliever is still a must this offseason.
MLB.com's Mark Feinsand linked the Athletics to one reliever, New York Yankees free agent Luke Weaver, as a great option to fill the void left by Miller.
Athletics linked to Yankees' Luke Weaver in free agency
"Last summer's trade of Mason Miller left a big hole in the Athletics bullpen, one they could look to fill via free agency." Feinsand writes. "Weaver had two solid years with the Yankees, though his performance dipped last season after a hamstring strain sent him to the IL for three weeks in June."
While Feinsand does share a cause for concern, with Weaver struggling after a hamstring strain, in a fresh season, and hopefully fully healthy, there's no reason to be concerned with Weaver's productivity.
The Athletics need to add bullpen arms, and while top names like Devin Williams, Edwin Diaz, and Pete Fairbanks aren't realistic options, someone like Weaver, who's 32 years old and could showcase elite potential, is a move worth making.
More: Athletics are trade deadline winners after trading Mason Miller to Padres
In 2025, Weaver had a 3.62 with a 4-4 record in 64 outings. Across 64.2 innings pitched, he struck out 72 batters and allowed 10 home runs. His 113 ERA+ wasn't his best, but it's a strong enough number that the Athletics could benefit from signing him.
If he does sign with the Athletics, it would be his eighth team he's played for in the Major Leagues since his career began in 2016. He's been a solid reliever for the Yankees, and now could head out west on a new deal.
Feinsand's linking of Weaver to the Athletics makes a lot of sense, as the Athletics likely won't spend too big this offseason, and Weaver would be a good enough option to bolster a weak bullpen after Miller was traded to the Padres at the trade deadline.
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