Athletics Weigh Potential Veteran Sell-Off Following Recent Losing Streak

Athletics Face Critical Decision Point Following Losing Streak

The team currently sits 6.5 games back of a postseason spot in the American League. According to Playoff Odds at FanGraphs, the Athletics’ probability of securing a playoff berth has dropped to less than 2%. Despite the statistical long odds, Forst noted that he has held conversations with players who remain confident in their ability to turn the season around, provided the team can improve performance and return key players from the injured list.

Evaluating the Trade Deadline Strategy

The upcoming August 3 deadline represents a pivot point for the front office. While the team entered the season with aspirations of playoff contention, the recent freefall has forced management to consider a potential shift in strategy. If the team continues to fall in the standings, the front office may be forced to transition into a selling role.

Analysts suggest that a full organizational “blowup” is unlikely, as the club maintains a core of young talent under contract. Instead, any potential selling activity would likely be on a smaller scale. Veterans such as Mark Leiter Jr. and Jeff McNeil have been identified as potential trade candidates, and there is speculation regarding the availability of All-Star catcher Shea Langeliers, who remains without a contract extension. Conversely, should the team decide to remain buyers, their primary needs include pitching, specifically a proven starter and a veteran reliever. The club’s No. 7 prospect, Tommy White, is viewed as a significant asset should the team seek to acquire talent for a second-half push.

Injuries and Roster Adjustments

Injuries have been a contributing factor to the team’s current standing. The Athletics are without slugger Brent Rooker for the remainder of the season, while other key contributors—including Nick Kurtz, Zack Gelof, Denzel Clarke, and Luis Severino—remain on the injured list. Forst expressed optimism regarding the return timelines for injured players, particularly Kurtz, noting that more information is expected following the removal of his splint.

In response to recent underperformance, the club recently designated Aaron Civale for assignment. His departure creates an opportunity for Jacob Lopez to rejoin the rotation. Lopez, who showed promise last season with a 4.08 ERA across 21 appearances, struggled early in 2026 before being optioned to the minors. Following a successful recent stretch with Triple-A Las Vegas, the team is hopeful he can replicate his previous production.

Coaching Staff Shakeup

The Athletics have also implemented changes to their coaching staff to address recent performance issues. Earlier this week, the club fired pitching coach Scott Emerson, promoting bullpen coach Dan Hubbs to the role on an interim basis for the remainder of the season. To fill the vacancy in the bullpen, the organization promoted Javy Guerra from his position as pitching coach for the Double-A Midland RockHounds.

Guerra, 40, brings recent professional experience to the major league staff, having played in the majors from 2011 to 2021 and continuing his playing career through 2023.

Athletics Status at the Break