A’s Designate Gio Urshela for Assignment Amid Roster Shake-Up
BREAKING: The Oakland Athletics have just designated veteran third baseman Gio Urshela for assignment as part of a significant roster overhaul. This urgent move comes on Friday, June 30, 2023, as the A’s prepare to host the Los Angeles Angels this weekend in West Sacramento, California.
Urshela’s tenure with the A’s has been marked by struggles, as he posted a batting average of just .238 with 20 RBI across 59 games. After a stint on the injured list due to a strained left hamstring, he returned to the lineup on June 17, but only managed to play in 27 of 49 games, hitting a modest .253 since his return.
In a strategic move, the Athletics have recalled infielder Brett Harris from Triple-A Las Vegas, who is set to make his season debut after a challenging previous year where he batted just .146 with three home runs and 12 RBI over two stints and 36 games. Harris’s promotion highlights the A’s commitment to reshaping their roster as they look to rebuild.
Adding to the depth, the A’s also claimed left-handed pitcher Jared Shuster off waivers from the Chicago White Sox, further signaling a shift in their approach. Shuster has been optioned to Las Vegas.
Urshela, a seasoned player at 33 years old, has had a notable career in the majors, showcasing his defensive skills with teams like the Yankees, Cleveland, Toronto, Minnesota, and the Angels. Last season, he batted .250 with nine home runs and 52 RBI while split between Detroit and Atlanta.
As the A’s navigate this transitional phase, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these changes impact the team’s performance. With the trade deadline approaching, the urgency for the Athletics to enhance their roster is palpable.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
