Overview
Infielder J.D. Davis was designated for assignment by the Oakland A’s on Monday, sources revealed, just three months after the San Francisco Giants released him during spring training, costing him nearly $6 million.
Davis, who is capable of playing both first and third base, had signed with Oakland following his surprising release from the Giants.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Oakland signed Davis, 31, to a one-year, $2.5 million deal in March after his unexpected departure from the Giants.
Davis had won a salary arbitration case with the Giants, setting him up to receive $6.9 million for the season.
However, arbitration wins do not guarantee a full-year salary, unlike settlements.
When the Giants released Davis just one week after signing third baseman Matt Chapman to a free agent deal, they only owed him one-sixth of his contract, which amounted to approximately $1.15 million.
The decision to release Davis sparked anger among players around the league, but despite their protests, they had little recourse.
This anger dissipated after Davis signed with the A’s.
Nevertheless, Davis struggled during his 39 games with the team, posting a .236/.304/.366 slash line, hitting four home runs and driving in five runs.
Potential Transactions
If Oakland can find a trade partner for Davis, the acquiring team will assume a portion of the remainder of his salary, which is fully guaranteed.
If they are unable to trade him, Davis could sign with a new team for a prorated portion of the $740,000 league minimum salary.
Career Statistics and Performance
Over his eight-year Major League Baseball career, Davis has been a well-above-average hitter, posting a .259/.341/.427 slash line.
His defensive shortcomings, however, have limited his ability to secure full-time at-bats.
Davis produced significant numbers at the plate last year with the Giants, hitting 18 home runs and driving in 69 runs over 144 games.
His best season came in 2019 when he played for the New York Mets, who acquired him from the Houston Astros during the previous offseason.
That year, he slashed an impressive .307/.369/.527, hitting 22 home runs and driving in 57 runs over 140 games, 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 bet on his talent.
While his defensive abilities have been questioned, Davis' offensive skills are undeniable.
The coming weeks will determine whether another team will take a chance on Davis by trading for him or signing him as a free agent.
The baseball world will be watching closely to see where the talented infielder lands next and whether he can rediscover the form that made him a valuable asset in previous seasons.