The Athletics are looking to strengthen their starting rotation ahead of the 2027 season, but financial limitations and location constraints present hurdles in attracting top free-agent starting pitchers. With high-end pitching in demand across Major League Baseball, executive Taylor Smith may look to trade market options rather than sacrifice the team’s core position players.
Potential Trade Candidates
While free-agent options such as reliever Clay Holmes have been linked to the team for their strong ground-ball profiles, the Athletics previously experienced mixed results after signing starter Luis Severino. As a result, pursuing trade opportunities for starters with upside could offer a more accessible alternative.
Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello stands out as a potential target. Smith already has a working relationship with Boston, having previously completed a deal to acquire defensive utility player and speedster Nate Eaton. Bello endured a difficult start to his 2026 season in the rotation, posting a 6.06 ERA while surrendering 80 hits and 11 home runs over 65.1 innings in the first half.
However, Bello rebounded after shifting to the bullpen during the second half of the year, generating a 2.12 ERA and giving up just one home run across 51 innings. He features a career fastball velocity of 95.7 mph, a slider, a changeup, and a sinker that has driven a 52.6 percent career ground-ball rate. Bello is under contract on a four-year, $49.5 million deal running through 2029 with a $1 million buyout option for 2030, averaging about $12 million annually. His recent inconsistency as a starter could keep his acquisition cost manageable.
Targeting Tampa Bay Rotation Help
Tampa Bay Rays starter Drew Rasmussen represents another potential trade target. Rasmussen’s 2027 salary escalated to $20 million after performance incentives were triggered, leaving him under contract for only one remaining season. Tampa Bay is widely expected to explore trade options to maximize his value before his contract expires.
The Athletics have established trade history with Tampa Bay, having previously acquired pitchers Jeffrey Springs and Jacob Lopez from the club. While Rasmussen’s single remaining contract year and $20 million salary lower the prospect package required to land him, securing the front-line starter would still demand a meaningful return.
Because top free-agent starting pitchers command premium contracts and often seek immediate contenders, pursuing trades remains the most feasible path forward as Smith works to assemble a competitive rotation for 2027.
