Mason Miller Reportedly No Longer 'Untouchable,' Latest A's Rumors on Severino, More

Mason Miller will be one of the top relievers available if the Athletics decide to make him available. And it sounds as though they might be open to at least fielding offers.

According to The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal, "A year ago, Athletics closer Mason Miller was untouchable. To this point, the A's messaging this season—we’re not talking about him—is pretty much the same. But according to sources briefed on the team's plans, that stance is subject to change. The way the A's see it, only a few teams are bold enough to propose an offer for Miller worthy of consideration. General manager David Forst might engage those teams as the deadline nears. But for now, he appears willing to let them grow more desperate."

Rosenthal added that the team's asking price "would figure to be exorbitant."

Miller, 26, is 1-2 this season with a 4.04 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 57 strikeouts and 19 saves in 22 opportunities and 35 total appearances. He continues to miss bats at an elite rate and now has 47 saves in 53 chances over the past two seasons. Outside of perhaps only Emmanuel Clase, a better closer won't be available at the trade deadline.

The Athletics have him under club control for four seasons beyond the 2025 campaign, however, making him highly valuable. It ultimately may be more likely that they make other trades instead of revolving around their rotation.

As Rosenthal noted, "the Athletics are listening not just on right-hander Luis Severino but also lefties JP Sears and Jeffrey Springs."

There aren't many great rotation options on the trade block this season, so the Athletics may be able to fetch a nice price for players like Severino, Sears and Springs.