Oakland Athletics 2009 Season Preview

Oakland Athletics 2008 Review

The Athletics struggled through their 2008 campaign for two main reasons; the first being the least productive lineup in all of baseball, the second being a slew of injuries that kept key components out of their lineup and pitching staff.

The Athletics constantly struggled to put runs on the board, hitting a league-worst .242, and scoring the fewest runs in the American League.

With only one player hitting more than 13 home runs, and no 100 RBI man in their lineup, it’s clear the Athletics were without the offensive firepower necessary to maintain stability and compete in one of the weaker divisions in the majors.

Injuries were another reason the Athletics were not able to maximize their potential in the 2008 season. Eric Chavez did not even manage to record 100 ABs, and the most consistent starter Justin Duchscherer missed nearly half the season

An effective pitching staff was the only reason the Athletics were able to escape from being one or the worst stories in baseball. The Athletics finished with a 75-86 record, good for third in the AL West.


Oakland Athletics 2009 Preview

The 2009 Athletics season is one giant question mark. Will the young rotation be able to hold up? Outside of Duchscherer, a cast of youngsters all under the age of 26 supports the projected rotation.

Although young, they are tremendously talented, and with a good history of putting together effective rotations, the Athletics have definitely found something to build on for the future.

However, the question remains whether any of these youngsters will blossom into successful starters and help the Athletics compete in 2009. Another uncertainty is the arrival of veterans the Athletics picked up in the offseason.

Jason Giambi, Nomar Garciaparra, and Orlando Cabrera are clearly in the downfall of their careers, which begs the question: Will they even be productive this upcoming season? The arrival of Matt Holiday definitely helps the Athletics’ offensive production.

However, will Holiday be as effective as he was in the thin air of Colorado? Will he make a smooth transition to AL pitching?

The bullpen is another concern, though the emergence of Brad Ziegler and Joey Devine helps to ease worries. However, depth is the key issue.

The Athletics also have to worry about being bit by the injury bug again in 2009. If the Athletics are fortunate enough to avoid these potential problems, and have productive answers to these questions, they will be able to compete in the AL West.

Oakland Athletics' Surprise Player

Joey Devine.

This was an easy decision considering how dominant the young reliever was down the stretch during 2008. He put up a ridiculous 0.59 ERA and 0.83 WHIP, while striking out 49 in 45 2/3 innings work.

These are numbers that show a tremendous amount of potential, and could produce the next shut-down late inning pitcher of the Athletics' future.

Oakland Athletics' Projection:

82-80, second in the AL West.

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