MLB Rumors: Oakland Athletics ''Trying To Trade'' Former Top Prospect

The former top prospect faces an uncertain future with the Oakland Athletics.

Despite showcasing his exceptional defensive skills and a solid performance in the Cactus League games this spring, Cristian Pache has been left off the Opening Day roster due to his poor offensive performance in the previous season.

Former top-prospect OF Cristian Pache will NOT make the #Athletics opening day roster, per A’s manager Mark Kotsay.

Pache is out of minor league options and will either need to be traded of DFA-ed. He is just 24 years old and headlined the A’s return in the Matt Olson trade. pic.twitter.com/b8x5r3VDYO
— MLB Deadline News (@MLBDeadlineNews) March 28, 2023

The 24-year-old Pache is out of minor-league options, which means he cannot be sent to the minors without being exposed to waivers. As a result, the A's are exploring trade options for him, but if none arise, he will likely be designated for assignment.

Acquired as part of the trade that sent Matt Olson to Atlanta, Pache was once considered a top prospect in baseball, but his bat has yet to develop at the major league level.

His .166/.218/.241 batting line last year did not meet the A's expectations, leading the team to opt for Esteury Ruiz's speed on the Opening Day roster.

While Cristian Pache hasn't provided the offense to justify regular MLB playing time, it's still baffling that a team like the A's – one in dire need of talent – would give an elite defensive CF basically one calendar year to sink or swim.

He'll catch on somewhere, pun intended.
— Grant McAuley (@grantmcauley) March 28, 2023

While Pache's elite defense could make him a valuable fourth outfielder for contending teams, the A's are left with a brutal outcome after parting with Olson to acquire him.

Pache's situation is a reminder of the risks and uncertainties involved in prospect development, and how quickly a player's fortunes can change.

While Ruiz could benefit from Pache's absence and receive more playing time in the outfield, Pache's future remains unclear, and it's possible that he may be picked up by another team if designated for assignment. Photo Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports