A's GM David Forst Says Free Agent Left-handed Relievers ‘on Our Radar'

LAS VEGAS - For most of last season, Ryan Buchter was the only left-hander in the A's bullpen. David Forst would like to change that in 2019.

Oakland's general manager said Wednesday he is interested in adding another southpaw to the pen.

"It's on our radar. It's something that we talk about and have reached out to some agents and some other teams about."

The A's bullpen was dominant last season, despite having just one left-hander. That was thanks in large part to right-handers like Blake Treinen and Lou Trivino, who had no problem retiring both right-handed and left-handed hitters.

"In terms of building the ideal bullpen, adding another lefty would be great," Forst started, before noting, "I don't know where it's going to come from right now."

The A's are also interested in bringing back right-hander Shawn Kelley and appear to be progressing in negotiations. But even if Oakland doesn't add another reliever, Forst is content with his current group. 

"You look at what's in place now with Treinen, Trivino, and Rodney at the back, Buchter, Petit, Pagan, J.B. Wendelken did a nice job, Liam (Hendriks) is back. So you've got a lot of good pieces in place, but it's still an area we can continue to strengthen."

If the A's do make a move, it likely won't be until after the Winter Meetings. Forst told reporters Wednesday night that nothing was imminent, though he mentioned good progress had been made with multiple free agents.
 

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