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Taylor Smith’s Improbable Quest: A Quality SP

You don’t want to trade from your talented core of position players. You only have so much money to throw around to free agents who don’t exactly list West Sacramento as their first choice. Starting pitching is at a premium.…

Athletics Nation

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 4:17 AM

Key Things to Know

Athletics Nation argues that Taylor Smith should pursue starting pitching via trade rather than through costly free agency.
The writer suggests Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello as a buy-low target under contract through 2029.
Tampa Bay Rays starter Drew Rasmussen is proposed as an ambitious target who is entering a $20 million contract year.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Athletics Nation writer Nico analyzes the potential trade routes for Athletics executive Taylor Smith to acquire starting pitching ahead of the 2027 season. Because the budget-conscious Athletics are unlikely to land expensive top-tier free agents, the writer suggests exploring unconventional trade targets who possess strong arsenals but carry distinct risks.

The piece highlights Boston Red Sox pitcher Brayan Bello and Tampa Bay Rays starter Drew Rasmussen as potential trade candidates. Nico argues that Bello's ground-ball tendencies and Rasmussen's high performance make them compelling targets, especially given Smith's previous working relationships with both organizations.

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Taylor Smith’s Improbable Quest: A Quality SP

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