The Oakland A’s made a trade on Monday, acquiring utilityman Tony Kemp from the Cubs, the team announced. In exchange, first base prospect Alfonso Rivas heads to Chicago. There was already an open spot on Oakland’s 40-man roster, so no corresponding move was needed for this new addition.
A’s fans should already be at least slightly familiar with Kemp, who spent most of his career so far with the Houston Astros. The 28-year-old is a left-handed batter whose top skills are defensive versatility and decent plate discipline. He’s played four positions in the majors, including all three outfield spots as well as second base, with just over half his time coming in LF.