The Oakland Athletics have had problems with their bullpen all year. Those glaring problems will only intensify now that Madson and Doolittle have left Oakland.
Melvin will likely rely on his starters a bit more as we march on through the second half. The A’s are expected, however, to continue their massive rebuild over the next few days. The rotation will likely take a hit when the A’s decided to finally trade Sonny Gray this month.
Gray’s name has come up in trade rumors all season-long, but talks of dealing the ace have intensified this week. Gray’s departure would leave the A’s starting staff without a clear leader and would further complicate Melvin’s job.