ANAHEIM — In case there was still any doubt, Friday provided a clear message: The A’s are all in for 2021.
In what developed into one of the most frantic Trade Deadlines in quite some time, the A’s emerged as one of the more active clubs by striking another deal just before the final buzzer, acquiring catcher Yan Gomes and utilityman Josh Harrison from the Nationals in exchange for three Minor Leaguers — catcher Drew Millas (Oakland’s No. 28 prospect, per MLB Pipeline) and right-handers Seth Shuman and Richard Guasch.
TRADE DETAILS
A’s get: C Yan Gomes, UTIL Josh Harrison
Nationals get: C Drew Millas, RHP Seth Shuman, RHP Richard Guasch
Friday’s five-player deal makes it four players acquired by the A’s over the past five days as they gear up for their attempt at reaching the postseason for a fourth straight year, which currently sees them holding the second American League Wild Card spot. It started on Monday with the club addressing its need for another late-inning arm by trading for left-hander Andrew Chafin from the Cubs. Then came the first addition to improve an inconsistent offense with the acquisition of Starling Marte from the Marlins on Wednesday.
Gomes, 34, was an important piece behind the plate for Washington during its run to a World Series title in 2019. The 2018 All-Star and 10-year veteran entered Friday slashing .271/.323/.454 with nine homers and 35 RBIs. He was also linked to the Blue Jays as recently as Thursday night.
Sean Murphy figures to remain as the primary backstop for Oakland. Gomes provides an upgrade to current backup option Aramis Garcia, who has struggled to hit in a limited role this season.
Harrison, 34, provides supreme versatility. Though the majority of his time has come at second base, the two-time All-Star has also appeared in games at third and all three outfield spots this season. Harrison is slashing .294/.366/434 with six homers and 38 RBIs in 90 games with the Nationals. His presence could allow the A’s to transition veteran second baseman Jed Lowrie into more of a platoon role at designated hitter along with Mitch Moreland.
