The Oakland A’s filled one of the team’s bigger holes on Monday evening, acquiring shortstop Jed Lowrie from the Houston Astros in exchange for first baseman/designated hitter Chris Carter, Brad Peacock, and Max Stassi. Also heading to Houston is replacement level reliever Fernando Rodriguez.
From the A’s perspective, the organization adds a solid defensive shortstop in Lowrie, who has some offensive upside. In an injury-marred 2012 season, the former Red Sox top prospect hit .244/.331/.448 with 18 doubles, 16 homeruns, and a pair of stolen bases. His total offensive production, according to Weighted Runs Created Plus, was 11% better than the league average, the fifth highest mark among shortstops with 300+ plate appearances. Along with the ceiling of a 4.0-win player, Lowrie’s also battled injuries throughout his career, failing to top 100 games in a season since 2008.
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