The Oakland Athletics made a significant roster adjustment ahead of their series finale against the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday evening, parting ways with catcher Austin Wynns. The move comes as the A's prepare to close out a three-game road set at Citizens Bank Park.
According to MLB.com's Martin Gallegos, Wynns was designated for assignment to make room for Shea Langeliers, who has returned from the paternity list. The decision was largely driven by Wynns' struggles at the plate, as he posted a disappointing .167/.204/.304 slash line with just three home runs and 10 RBIs over 36 games since joining the A's last season. His .623 OPS was among the lowest for catchers with regular playing time.
Steve Adams of MLB Trade Rumors noted that while Wynns' poor offensive performance likely means he'll clear waivers, another team could potentially swing a small cash deal to bring him in as a short-term backup option. For now, the A's catching duties will be handled by Langeliers and Jonah Heim, the latter of whom was acquired in a recent trade.
This roster shuffle also gives manager Mark Kotsay more flexibility behind the plate. Heim, who bats from the left side, provides a valuable platoon option alongside the right-handed hitting Langeliers, allowing the A's to better match up against opposing pitchers. For a team looking to build momentum in a competitive AL West, having a stronger, more balanced catching duo could make a meaningful difference down the stretch.
