Oakland Athletics GM throws cold water on Mason Miller trade idea

The final spot where the Oakland Athletics should definitely be sellers ahead of next week’s MLB trade deadline. They are 39-62 and in last place in the American League West.

The A’s will play their final season in Northern California before temporarily moving to Sacramento, but they won’t be moving any further for now.

One name has been mentioned more than others, and we are of course talking about All-Star closer Mason Miller.

The 25-year-old hurler has attracted interest from several teams around the baseball world, while Oakland’s asking price for the flamethrower is reportedly ridiculous.

That makes sense. He’s under team control through the 2029 season. The kid also throws to a 2.27 ERA and 0.86 WHIP while striking out 70 batters in 39.2 innings.

The question is whether the A’s will consider offers for Miller or other veterans as the deadline quickly approaches.

General Manager David Forst seemed to suggest that this would not happen.

“We’re going to be opportunistic. We can do some things. But anyone who expects us to keep moving guys just for prospects is probably going to be disappointed because there are guys here that we think are going to be a part of the team beyond this year,” Forst said, via Martín Gallegos of MLB.com.

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Is Oakland Athletics pitcher Mason Miller no longer worth an MLB trade?

Based on Forst’s quote, it appears that Miller will not be available. When the head of the front office spoke about players being part of the future, Miller had to be included. As noted above, he is under the team’s control for the foreseeable future.

Miller’s transition from starter to bullpen will also play a role here. He’s spoken openly about his desire to return to the rotation. If that’s the case, any asking price for a potential trade would go through the roof.

There are a few other A’s players who could be in consideration.

Outfielder Miguel Andujar has hit .304 with four homers and 24 RBI in 47 games since joining the A’s. Former All-Star Brent Rooker is also a possibility. He has hit a team-high 22 homers on the campaign.

From a pitching perspective, teams have shown interest in starter JP Sears, but Oakland appears intent on keeping him.