Oakland Athletics Acquire Pitcher From San Francisco Giants

The Oakland Athletics have acquired left-handed pitcher Sam Long from the San Francisco Giants in exchange for cash considerations.

Long had been designated for assignment by the Giants to make room for outfielder Cal Stevenson, who was acquired by San Francisco from Oakland for cash considerations.

It's the second trade between the two teams in the last week, after the Giants acquired Cal Stevenson from the A's, as previously mentioned.

We have acquired LHP Sam Long from the San Francisco Giants for cash considerations. pic.twitter.com/ukuxJKo0Dz

— Oakland A's (@Athletics) April 24, 2023

Long's story with the Giants began in 2021 when he was signed despite never having advanced past A-ball. He quickly rose through the ranks and pitched 40.2 innings for the Giants that season, although his performance was average.

The 27-year-old had a solid season last year with the Giants, recording a 3.61 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, and 33 strikeouts across 42.1 innings and 28 appearances.

However, he began this year in Triple-A Sacramento, where he had a 9.90 ERA in four appearances, with only seven strikeouts and five walks in 10 innings.

🚨The rare Giants-A’s trade: Sam Long was sent to the A’s for cash considerations, had been DFA’d by Giants a few days ago.

— Alex Pavlovic (@PavlovicNBCS) April 24, 2023

Despite Long's recent struggles, the Athletics are taking a gamble on his potential to improve his velocity in more condensed outings.

Long has primarily been used for multi-inning outings during his time with the Giants, but the A's hope that he can rediscover his form and contribute to their pitching staff.

For his minor-league career, Long holds a solid 3.24 ERA over 224.2 innings, so the talent and potential is there.

If Long performs well with the A's, there is a possibility that he may be traded again rather than remaining with Oakland for the whole season. Photo Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports