A's in Trade Talks for Hanley Ramirez, Chase Headley

Update, 5:56 PM 

The A's are now aggressively pursuing Ramirez, according to Bob Nightingale:

The Oakland #Athletics have now become the most aggressive team, Marlins exec says, pursuing #Marlins infielder Hanley Ramirez
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 25, 2012

Original Article, Published 9:47 AM


You knew it was only a matter of time before this happened: the A's are looking for an upgrade at shortstop, and are now in talks to acquire Hanley Ramirez from the Miami Marlins.

The Oakland #Athletics,desperate for infield help,have jumped into trade talks for #Marlins Hanley Ramirez, joining #BlueJays and #RedSox.
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) July 24, 2012

Ramirez is hitting .246 with 14 home runs and 47 RBI, which is a monumental upgrade over Cliff Pennington's .197 batting average.

He could be the missing piece that could lead the A's into the playoffs. They don't need to worry about pitching (first in the AL in ERA), so getting a few quality bats would deeply improve their playoff chances.

Another possible acquisition is Chase Headley of the San Diego Padres, who is hitting .265 with 11 home runs and 50 RBI.

Among the teams interested in Chase Headley: Oakland, which is looking for help on the left side of the infield.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) July 22, 2012

 Brandon Inge is already the A's third baseman, but with their meager offense, they'll take any threat available.

The bottom line is, the A's are going to have to acquire a bat or two if they are going to contend for a playoff spot. GM Billy Beane has been known to trade for players when his team is in contention, so there's really no reason why they won't end up with another bat.

Posted in: Chase Headley,Hanley Ramirez,Oakland Athletics