‘Do Some Big Things’: MLB Insider Picks the Immediate Fix for A’s as They Hire New GM

MLB insider Ken Rosenthal stated that fixing the pitching staff is the most critical immediate priority for the Athletics. Following a 64–98 season in 2026, the franchise appointed former Boston Red Sox assistant general manager Taylor Smith as their new general manager. Rosenthal noted that while the A's feature quality young position players, improving pitching will remain challenging as they play in Sacramento ahead of their planned move to Las Vegas.

The Athletics struggled on the mound in 2026, posting a 5.51 team ERA that ranked 29th across Major League Baseball. In contrast, the offense hit 194 home runs, led by catcher Shea Langeliers with 23 homers and first baseman Nick Kurtz with 21. The team faces key roster decisions as they attempt to balance young talent and improve pitching before relocating to Las Vegas in 2028.