In Mesa, Arizona, the Athletics' manager, Mark Kotsay, faced some tough calls as Spring Training unfolded, particularly when it came to shaping the bullpen. On Friday, before their game against the Cubs at Hohokam Stadium, the A’s made the decision to send right-hander Tyler Ferguson and infielder Zack Gelof to Triple-A Las Vegas. This move left 32 players in the camp, with more cuts expected before the team heads to Toronto to kick off the regular season against the Blue Jays on March 27.
The conversation with Ferguson was especially challenging for Kotsay. “It’s never easy, especially with someone I have a lot of respect for,” Kotsay shared.
“Fergie has been a reliable arm for us, stepping up whenever needed. We discussed how the roster will evolve throughout the season.
I’m confident he’ll perform well and be ready when called upon again.”
Last season, Ferguson was a key player for the A’s, appearing in 56 games with a 4.66 ERA, 54 strikeouts, and 34 walks over 58 innings. This spring, he made six appearances, giving up four runs on nine hits with six strikeouts in six innings. His unexpected departure helps clarify the A’s bullpen situation, but the final decisions on which eight relievers will start the season are still pending.
The A’s are sticking with a closer-by-committee approach, which proved effective last year. After trading All-Star closer Mason Miller to the Padres, the team finished strong with a 28-23 record from August 1 onward. During that period, their bullpen boasted a 2.99 ERA, the second-best in the Majors, just behind Cleveland.
Returning relievers Hogan Harris, Elvis Alvarado, Michael Kelly, and Justin Sterner are expected to be on the Opening Day roster. New additions Scott Barlow and Mark Leiter Jr. bring seasoned arms to Kotsay’s late-inning strategy.
Luis Medina, back after a lengthy recovery from Tommy John surgery, is making waves with his fastball reaching 100 mph. Despite occasional command issues, Medina, who is out of Minor League options, is pushing hard for a bullpen spot.
“He’s improving with each outing,” Kotsay noted. “His timing and rhythm are getting better. The more he pitches, the stronger he’ll become.”
Assuming Medina secures a spot, there’s likely one remaining bullpen slot up for grabs. Non-roster invitees Nick Anderson and Joel Kuhnel have impressed this spring.
J.T. Ginn and Jack Perkins, who have experience in both starting and relief roles, are also in the mix as they transition to bullpen duties.
“There are still several contenders for that last spot,” Kotsay said. “It’s tough, especially with the team preparing to head straight to Toronto. Everyone’s aiming for that roster, but not everyone can make the trip.”