LAS VEGAS — The A’s are in dire need of starting pitching, but their first signing of the offseason helps fill a hole at another position.
Kicking off the A’s offseason of what is expected to feature several signings was an agreement to a one-year deal with catcher Chris Herrmann Tuesday afternoon.
Herrmann, 31, appeared in 36 games with the Seattle Mariners last season and hit .237 with two home runs and seven RBIs. A left-handed hitter, Herrmann gives the A’s a chance to platoon at catcher with right-handed hitting Josh Phegley.
It’s unclear if the Herrmann signing ends the chances of bringing back Jonathan Lucroy, who reportedly is looking for more money than the A’s are willing to offer.