Marcus Semien was a revelation for the A's in 2019. The San Francisco native finished third in AL MVP voting and was a finalist for the Gold Glove at shortstop.
However, after back-to-back seasons ending in a Wild Card Game loss, Oakland knows it needs more to make it to the next level.
Jorge Mateo, the A's No. 4 prospect, is a promising shortstop with an 80-speed grade and a strong arm. However, the 24-year-old is out of minor league options and isn't anywhere close to cracking the A's starting lineup with Semien looking like a potential cornerstone if Oakland chooses to re-sign him.
Mateo was acquired by Oakland as part of the Sonny Gray trade with the Yankees back in 2017.
Mateo's speed makes him an intriguing trade chip, as a team in need of some top-of-the-line speed and fielding on the bench could be captivated enough to make a move for him.
The A's have a strong lineup coming back, but will need to shore up the pitching staff, especially the bullpen, after a season where the A's blew 31 saves, tied for the most in MLB.
[RELATED: Report: Yankees one interested team in A's reliever Treinen]
Sports
Mateo had 62 extra-base hits and stole 24 bases a season ago, and could be part of a package for a significant upgrade to the Major League roster.
