Oakland A's 2009 Season Preview

on 04 8, 2009

Oakland A’s 2008 Review:

The Athletics struggled through their 2008 campaign for two main
reasons, the first being the least productive lineup in all of
baseball, the second being a slew of injuries that kept key components
out of their lineup and pitching staff. The Athletics constantly
struggled to put runs on the board, hitting a league worst .242, and
scoring the fewest runs in the American League. With only one player
hitting more than 13 home runs, and no 100 RBI man in their lineup,
its clear the Athletics were without the offensive firepower necessary
to maintain stability and compete in one of the weaker divisions in
the MLB. Injuries were another reason the Athletics were not able to
maximize their potential in the 2008 season, Eric Chavez did not even
manage to record 100 AB’s, and the most consistent starter Justin
Duchscherer missed nearly half of his starts. An effective pitching
staff was the only reason the Athletics were able to escape from being
one or the worst stories in baseball. The Athletics finished with a
75-86 record, good for third in the AL West.

Oakland A’s 2009 Preview:

The 2009 Athletics season is one giant question mark. Will the young
rotation be able to hold up? Outside of Duchscherer, a cast of
youngsters all under the age of 26 supports the projected rotation.
Although young, they are tremendously talented, and with a good
history of putting together effective rotations, the Athletics have
definitely found something to build on for the future. However, the
question remains whether or not any of these youngsters will blossom
into successful starters and help the Athletics compete in 09.
Another uncertainty is the arrival of veterans the A’s picked up in
the off-season. Giambi, Garciaparra, and Cabrera are clearly in the
downfall of their careers, which begs the question will they even be
productive this upcoming season? The arrival of Matt Holiday
definitely helps the A’s offensive production. However, will he be as
effective as he was in the thin air of Colorado? Will he make a
smooth transition to AL pitching? The bullpen is another concern, the
emergence of Brad Ziegler and Joey Devine helps to ease worries,
however depth is the key issue. The A’s also have to worry about
being bit by the injury bug again in 2009. If the A’s are fortunate
enough to avoid these potential problems, and have productive answers
to these questions, they will be able to compete in the AL West.

Oakland A’s Surprise Player:

Joey Devine, this was an easy decision considering how dominant the
young reliever was down the stretch during 2008. He put up a
ridiculous 0.59 ERA, and 0.83 WHIP, while striking out 49 in 45 2/3
innings work. Numbers that show a tremendous amount of potential, and
could produce the next shut down late inning pitcher of the Athletics
future.

Oakland A’s Projection:

82-80, second in the AL West.

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