The Athletics announced Friday they have declined 2027 team options on second baseman Jeff McNeil and left-handed starter Jeffrey Springs, ending the tenure of two veterans who were fixtures in the 2026 lineup. Both players are nine-year major league veterans acquired via trade in recent years.
McNeil arrived from the New York Mets along with cash in exchange for minor-leaguer Yordan Rodriguez. The career .281 hitter batted .264 with 59 RBIs in his lone season with the A's. Springs was acquired two years ago in December for three minor-leaguers and a draft pick; he posted a 15-25 record and a 5.05 ERA over two seasons after being brought in as the club's No. 1 starter.
The moves create openings in the infield and rotation. At second base, candidates include shortstop Jacob Wilson — the 2025 rookie of the year runner-up — along with Triple-A Las Vegas Aviators shortstop Drew Swift and Double-A Midland RockHounds shortstop Leo De Vries. De Vries, the key prospect acquired in the Mason Miller trade, is recovering from shoulder surgery.
The roster turnover comes as the franchise prepares for its move to Las Vegas under new leadership. The club introduced 31-year-old Taylor Smith as president of baseball operations Wednesday, and on Thursday acquired outfielder Nate Eaton from the Boston Red Sox for minor league right-hander Jareth Rayo.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
English (US)·