PT TOMORROW: AL West—Ninth inning outlooks

Oakland Athletics

Ryan Madson (RHP, OAK) performed credibly in 2016, with 30 saves and a 3.62 ERA on the AL West's worst club. But a 4.24 xERA points to trouble under the hood, most notably in the form of declining Ks. Madson posted a six-year-worst 6.8 Dom—which fell to 5.9 after June, as he struggled with inconsistency and a 4.40 ERA over the final three months of the season. And now Madson's age (36), rebuilt elbow and seven blown saves last season suggest that the A's will hedge their bets. Manager Bob Melvin stated before spring training Madson isn't guaranteed the closer role, and what has been described as "general arm soreness" that delayed Madson's first spring appearance fuels more early uncertainty. 

As part of the...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Angel Genao has been getting plenty of playing time in Cleveland, often at the expense of Brayan Rocchio. Plus, the possible return of Drew Thorpe for CHW, the bullpen outlook in DET, Sal Perez's 2H rebound, and Joe Ryan's recovery in MIN.
Aug 27 2026 3:06am
The A's have been depleted by injuries, but are getting some needed outfield help soon.
Aug 26 2026 3:05am
Could George Springer's playing time continue to slip as his struggles continue? Plus, Blaze Alexander nearing a return for BAL, and rotation updates for TB, BOS, and NYY.
Aug 25 2026 3:05am
Robert Stock has excelled at limiting hard contact, but can he become efficient enough to earn a win? Plus: 1B & SP in MIA; INF & SP in PHI; 1B in WAS; SP in ATL; more.
Aug 24 2026 3:37am
This week, we check in on late-season closer options in both L.A. and Colorado, watch as new playing time changes become clearer in S.F. and S.D., and welcome some guys to (or back to) the majors.
Aug 22 2026 3:07am

Tools