Let's begin with a few quotes about the Oakland A's current offseason plans:
Aug. 5: "What we probably won't do is use prospects for acquisitions. ... That's not to say we won't make trades." - Billy Beane, via Susan Slusser of the S.F. Chronicle
Nov. 20: "[General manager David] Forst says payroll not an issue right now and [A's] are pursing [free agent] relievers with their top priority to rebuild bullpen." - Susan Slusser, S.F. Chronicle
Nov. 20: "We've got room to spend, we've just gotta find the right guys.