The Athletics' interest in Kris Bubic is a fascinating development, especially given the team's current state and the player's injury history. Bubic, a left-handed pitcher, is a free agent after the season, making him an attractive rental option for any team looking to bolster their rotation. However, the Athletics' pursuit of Bubic is not without its complexities and potential risks.
One thing that immediately stands out is the concern over Bubic's health. The southpaw has been sidelined since May 14 due to soreness in his throwing elbow, and while he is making progress, his injury history is a cause for worry. After undergoing Tommy John surgery and a rotator cuff strain, Bubic has only pitched 213 innings since the start of the 2023 season. This raises a deeper question: Can the Athletics take the risk of acquiring a player with such a history, especially when they are in need of immediate help?
From my perspective, the Athletics' interest in Bubic is a strategic move, but it is also a gamble. The team's current rotation is in disarray, with injuries to Luis Severino and Aaron Civale further thinning their ranks. Acquiring Bubic could provide immediate relief, but it also means taking on a player with a history of injuries and a potential short-term commitment. The Athletics' budget is a factor, too, as Bubic has $3.88MM remaining on his $6.15MM salary, which could be a fit for any team's budget.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the Athletics' current state. With a 31-34 record, they are not far behind the Royals in the standings, and there is no guarantee they will be in 'buyer' mode by the trade deadline. The team's need for rotation help is obvious, but the question remains: Is Bubic the right fit for the Athletics' long-term plans?
One thing that is clear is that Bubic could be a decent fit for the hitter-friendly Sutter Health Park. His ability to keep the ball in the park over the last four seasons is impressive, and his grounder rate is above average. However, the Athletics' current starting five, which includes two rookies, may not be able to rely on Bubic to provide consistent results.
In my opinion, the Athletics' interest in Bubic is a strategic move, but it is also a gamble. The team's need for rotation help is obvious, but the question remains: Is Bubic the right fit for the Athletics' long-term plans? The answer to this question will likely determine the fate of the Athletics' pursuit of Bubic and could have significant implications for the team's future.
