As the offseason heats up, the Athletics continue their long-term rebuild, striking a balance between a young, promising core and the need for select veteran additions.
The Athletics are unlikely to chase mega-contracts, but strategic signings in free agency could provide production, leadership, and stability without compromising payroll flexibility. Among the top targets from this year’s free-agent class are Eugenio Suárez, Jorge Polanco, and Emilio Pagán — players who combine upside, positional fit, and realistic contract demands.
Potential Targets for the Athletics in Free Agency
Power at Third
Eugenio Suárez remains one of the most appealing corner infield bats available in free agency. Now in his early 30s, he continues to offer elite power, having posted 49 home runs and 118 RBIs in 2025. For the A’s, Suárez would represent a rare middle-of-the-order threat, capable of anchoring the lineup while complementing the team’s speed and contact-oriented approach. Beyond his on-field production, Suárez brings veteran leadership and postseason experience, qualities that are invaluable for a clubhouse filled with young players transitioning to the majors. The Athletics could pursue a two-year deal in the $22 million per season range, which provides short-term impact without limiting future flexibility. A three-year deal at $20 million per season would give slightly more stability while maintaining manageable payroll obligations.
A Reliable Infielder
Jorge Polanco presents another opportunity for the A’s to improve their infield depth. A switch-hitter capable of playing multiple positions, Polanco offers both contact and moderate power. In 2025, he posted a .265/.326/.495 slash line with 26 home runs and 78 RBI, demonstrating consistent production while maintaining positional versatility for the Seattle Mariners. For the Athletics, he could rotate between second and third base or serve as a utility option, allowing the team to maximize roster efficiency. A two-year contract in the $12–15 million per year range would provide the A’s with cost-controlled production while giving Polanco a chance to re-establish himself as a high-impact everyday player.
Desperate Relief Help
Finally, Emilio Pagán could address one of their perennial weaknesses: bullpen stability. As a free agent, Pagán had a strong 2025 season, posting a 2.88 ERA over nearly 70 innings while converting 32 of 38 save opportunities. Adding him would give the A’s a reliable late-inning presence and experienced arm to guide younger relievers. A one-year deal in the $3–5 million range, potentially with performance incentives, would provide a high reward-to-risk ratio. For a team with limited payroll flexibility, acquiring an established bullpen arm without long-term financial commitment is a practical and strategic move.
The Last Word
Together, Suárez, Polanco, and Pagán would allow the Athletics to combine youth with proven veterans in a way that addresses multiple roster needs. Suárez provides corner power, Polanco adds versatility and consistent contact, and Pagán stabilizes the bullpen. While none of these signings are blockbuster moves on the scale of Luis Severino (at least financially), each represents a realistic, high-value addition that could elevate the team immediately while preserving flexibility for the future.
Mark Kotsay expressed hope that the Athletics can keep their young core intact for the foreseeable futurehttps://t.co/badKzqCFps
— Athletics on NBCS (@NBCSAthletics) December 10, 2025
Their 2026 offseason strategy is clear: pursue affordable, high-impact veterans who can complement a young core, provide leadership, and deliver production in areas that have long been weaknesses. If the Athletics could secure one or more of these free agents, they could make a meaningful leap in competitiveness while keeping their rebuild on track.
Main Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images
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