Lou Trivino could run away with A's closer role
Oakland A's RP Lou Trivino has looked sharp in limited action, and NBC Sports EDGE's Drew Silva explains why he could be a useful addition for managers looking for relief help.
Video Transcript
- The A's signed Trevor Rosenthal to a one year $11 million contract in late February. A relatively large investment for that cost conscious organization, but Rosenthal is probably done for the season or, at least, the first three to four months after needing surgery in early April for thoracic outlet syndrome, a shoulder condition that has derailed a number of promising pitching careers. Matt Harvey, Chris Archer, and Michael Walker come to mind.
With an opening at closer, all eyes are on A's manager, Bob Melvin, and how he's going to deploy his relievers through the early part of the year. Lou Trevino got Oakland's first save on April 13 against the Diamondbacks, pitching around a one out walk in his school in spring. He's looked sharp out of the gate. Far more sharp than Jake Beekman, and can maybe run away with that dig in Rosenthal's extended absence. It goes without saying that Trevino is not quite as dominant as Liam Hendriks, who's now closing games for the White Sox, but the 29-year-old right hander could still carry considerable value as the primary ninth inning man for the defending American League West champion.