Overview
Infielder J.D. Davis was designated for assignment by the Oakland A's on Monday, sources mentioned, just three months after the San Francisco Giants released him during spring training. This release, controversial at the time, cost him nearly $6 million.
Davis, who can skillfully play both first and third base, had secured a deal with Oakland following his unexpected release from the Giants.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Oakland signed Davis, 31, to a one-year, $2.5 million contract in March, just weeks after his surprising cut from the Giants. Davis had previously won a salary arbitration case against the Giants and was set to receive $6.9 million for the season. However, trials do not guarantee a full-year salary unlike negotiated settlements.
The Giants' decision to release Davis came just one week after signing third baseman Matt Chapman as a free agent. As a result, they only owed Davis one-sixth of his contract, approximately $1.15 million. This decision sparked anger among players around the league, but despite the protests, there was little recourse available. This anger slightly subsided once Davis signed with the A's.
Unfortunately for Davis, he struggled during his 39 games with Oakland, batting .236/.304/.366, with four home runs and five RBIs.
Potential Transactions
If Oakland can trade Davis, the acquiring team will assume a portion of the remainder of his fully guaranteed salary. However, if Oakland is unable to find a trading partner, Davis could then sign with a new team at a prorated portion of the $740,000 league minimum salary.
Career Statistics and Performance
Throughout his eight-year Major League Baseball career, Davis has been recognized as a well-above-average hitter with a slash line of .259/.341/.427. His defensive shortcomings have, however, limited his ability to secure regular, full-time at-bats.
Displaying significant numbers at the plate with the Giants last year, Davis hit 18 home runs and drove in 69 runs over 144 games. His standout season came in 2019 with the New York Mets, who had acquired him from the Houston Astros the previous offseason. During that year, Davis impressively slashed .307/.369/.527, hitting 22 home runs and driving in 57 runs over 140 games, which were split between third base and left field.
Conclusion
The designation for assignment marks another twist in Davis' tumultuous year, which began with a costly release from the Giants and continued with a challenging stint in Oakland. Despite his struggles this season, Davis' proven track record as a reliable hitter makes him an interesting prospect for teams willing to take a chance on his talent.
While his defensive abilities have been questioned, Davis' offensive skills are undeniable. The coming weeks will reveal whether another team will take a gamble on Davis by trading for him or signing him as a free agent. The baseball world will be watching closely to see where this talented infielder lands next and whether he can rediscover the form that made him a valuable asset in previous seasons.