Elephant Rumblings: Forst speaks to A’s offseason priorities

MLB news roundup

Happy Monday, Athletics Nation!

Martin Gallegos at MLB.com laid out some of the more notable indications provided by Athletics GM David Forst on the organization’s offseason priorities at last week’s General Managers Meetings.

Forst confirmed that A’s number 2 prospect Nick Kurtz could be joining top prospect Jacob Wilson on the fast track to MLB next year, beginning with a chance to earn an Opening Day roster spot in Spring Training. A heavy hitting first baseman out of Wake Forest, Kurtz was the A’s first pick, taken fourth overall in the 2024 MLB Draft.

The A’s need pitching depth in the rotation and the bullpen, and their best option at third base is unclear. Forst recognized some prospects who might eventually regularly occupy the hot corner, such as Darell Hernaiz, Max Schuemann, and Brett Harris, but also said that the A’s will likely seek more options “on the Major League side” to hold down the position, which might make sense while a very promising Max Muncy works his way through the system. Muncy is currently the A’s number 8 prospect per MLB Pipeline.

Jason Burke at SI.com speculated on who some of those big league possibilities might be, considering a very unlikely trade for the Cardinals’ Nolan Arenado, unpalatable free agents such as Alex Bregman, J.D. Davis, and Jace Peterson, an intriguing gamble on a Yoán Moncada comeback, or a “good fit” such as Brett Baty. The Rule 5 Draft might present some options, as well.

Have a fantastic week, AN.

A’s Coverage:

• Why “Inconsequential” TJ McFarland Signing Might be More Significant
• Forst talks AFL standouts, TJ timelines and more
• A’s Nick Kurtz to report to MLB camp in spring
• A’s appear likely to add third baseman from outside the organization
• A’s minor leaguer Steven Echavarria stands out in this category

MLB News & Interest:

• Reggie Jackson Steps Down From Astros Front Office Role
• Roki Sasaki’s contract situation, signing process and suitors, explained ($)
• Marlins Hire Clayton McCullough As Manager
• Tigers To Give Kenta Maeda “Every Opportunity” To Earn Back Role In Rotation
• Trade Candidate: Brandon Lowe
• D’Backs, Nationals, Yankees Among Teams Interested In Christian Walker
• Today in Baseball History

Best of X:

AFL bats.

AFL arms.

Braden’s “One Last Ride” out now.