What's Happening?
The Oakland Athletics are considering right-handed pitcher Blake Holub from the Milwaukee Brewers as a potential target in the upcoming Rule 5 Draft. Holub, a 27-year-old relief pitcher, was left unprotected by the Brewers after the 40-man roster deadline. Originally drafted by the Detroit Tigers in 2021, Holub was acquired by the Brewers in exchange for former A's Rule 5 draftee Mark Canha. Holub is noted for his impressive physical attributes, including a 6-foot-6 frame and a seven-foot extension, ranking in the 93rd percentile in MLB. His pitching arsenal includes a 93-95 mph cutter and an 84-86 mph slider, both with high whiff rates. Despite his potential, Holub needs to improve his command to fit into an MLB bullpen immediately. The Athletics have
a history of successfully developing relief pitchers with strong stuff but inconsistent command, making Holub a suitable candidate for their roster.
Why It's Important?
The potential acquisition of Blake Holub by the Oakland Athletics could bolster their bullpen, which has struggled with ground-ball rates in recent seasons. Holub's ability to generate ground balls and strikeouts aligns with the Athletics' strategy of developing pitchers with high upside. The Athletics ranked last in MLB with a ground-ball rate of 37.4% last season, and Holub's 50.5% ground-ball rate could significantly improve their performance. Additionally, acquiring Holub through the Rule 5 Draft would be a cost-effective way for the Athletics to enhance their pitching staff without significant financial investment. This move could also signal the Athletics' continued focus on developing young talent and building a competitive team for the 2026 season.
What's Next?
If the Athletics decide to pursue Blake Holub in the Rule 5 Draft, they will need to make room on their 40-man roster. This could involve releasing or trading one of their current pitchers, such as Joey Estes, Mitch Spence, or Osvaldo Bido, who are considered depth options. The Athletics are expected to prioritize younger pitchers like Jack Perkins, Luis Morales, and Gunnar Hoglund, who could contribute to the team's success in 2026. The decision to acquire Holub will depend on the Athletics' assessment of his potential to fit into their bullpen and contribute to their overall strategy.
