OAKLAND ATHLETICS

2005 finish: 88-74, 2^nd place in AL West)

Manager: Ken Macha (4^th season)

Free agents: RHP Octavio Dotel, DH Erubiel Durazo, DH Scott Hatteberg, LHP Ricardo Rincon, C Alberto Castillo, RHP Keiichi Yabu

On the block: RHP Kirk Saarloos, RHP Juan Cruz, LHP Joe Kennedy, IF Keith Ginter

Looking for: Corner outfielder, designated hitter or first baseman, backup infielder

What’s going on: Now that Ken Macha has found out that the grass isn’t always greener elsewhere, GM Billy Beane can get to work on providing Macha with what little the roster needs to get back to the playoffs after a two-year absence. With some pitching to spare, the A’s should be able to improve their offense. They have at least one right-handed power bat — likely in left field, first base or at designated hitter. Veteran left-handed setup man Ricardo Rincon could return, but they aren’t expect to re-sign Erubiel Durazo, Scott Hatteberg or Octavio Dotel, who is recovering from surgery and won’t pitch until at least midseason. Hatteberg could land a front-office or minor-league coaching position if he doesn’t catch on as a player elsewhere. Setup man Jay Witasick was re-signed to a two-year deal. They did not exercise an option on reliever Keiichi Yabu, and he isn’t likely to return. Gerald Perry has replaced Dave Hudgens as the hitting instructor. Bob Geren, who would have been a candidate if Macha didn’t return, has moved from bullpen coach to bench coach.

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