Athletics’ Third Base Dilemma
The Oakland Athletics have experienced a staggering 27 different players at third base since trading Matt Chapman to the Toronto Blue Jays in March 2022. This statistic is not just a number; it reflects the turmoil and uncertainty that has enveloped a position once solidified by a Gold Glove winner. Chapman’s legacy, marked by his 573 games at third base during his five seasons with the A’s, now feels like a distant memory as the team grapples with finding a reliable replacement.
The Revolving Door of Options
Since Chapman’s exit, the A’s have been on a relentless quest for a consistent presence at the hot corner. Vimael Machín has emerged as the most frequent face there, logging 81 games in the position. However, the constant turnover has highlighted the challenges the organization faces. Other players who have donned the Athletics’ jersey at third base include:
Jace Peterson (77 games)
Brett Harris (62 games)
Kevin Smith (56 games)
Abraham Toro (56 games)
Gio Urshela (56 games)
Max Scheumann (54 games)
Darell Hernaiz (52 games)
Sheldon Neuse (49 games)
Jonah Bride (48 games)
Aledmys Díaz (40 games)
Jordan Díaz (38 games)
Miguel Andujar (32 games)
Max Muncy (32 games)
Tyler Nevin (25 games)
J.D. Davis (14 games)
Chad Pinder (9 games)
Luis Urías (9 games)
Armando Alvarez (6 games)
Matt Davidson (6 games)
Nick Allen (5 games)
Ernie Clement (4 games)
Logan Davidson (3 games)
Tyler Wade (3 games)
Tristan Gray (2 games)
Carlos Cortes (1 game)
Drew Jackson (1 game)
This extensive list illustrates the A’s struggles to find a stable option at third base. The revolving door signifies not just a lack of talent, but also the broader implications of trading away a player of Chapman’s caliber.
The Cost of Trading Chapman
The deal that sent Chapman to Toronto has proven to be a difficult pill to swallow for A’s fans. The return from that trade has been less than impactful, with Gunnar Hoglund being the sole remaining asset in the organization. While Chapman’s defensive prowess and offensive contributions were undeniable, the A’s have found themselves in a precarious situation, searching for answers at a pivotal position.
Looking Ahead
As the A’s navigate the current free agency landscape, they are faced with a market that features only a few elite names. The pressure is mounting to secure a dependable third baseman who can help stabilize the lineup. In a season where consistency is crucial, the Athletics remain hopeful that they can finally find a lasting solution to their third-base woes.
