By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Athletics trade for veteran 1B Morales to fill in for Olson
AP LOGO 3.jpg

OAKLAND (AP) — The Oakland Athletics have acquired first baseman Kendrys Morales from Toronto, giving them a replacement for injured Matt Olson.

The A’s got Morales from the Blue Jays on Wednesday for minor league infielder Jesus Lopez and $1 million in international signing bonus pool allocation. Toronto will pay Oakland $11,445,000, meaning Morales costs Oakland only the $555,000 minimum.

Olson broke the hamate bone in his right hand during the opening series in Japan against Seattle. The first baseman is on the injured list, and the A’s hope the 35-year-old Morales will provide pop in Olson’s absence.

The switch-hitting Morales hit .249 with 21 homers and 57 RBIs in 130 games last season for Toronto. Morales is getting $12 million in the final year of a $33 million, three-year contract.

Oakland got swept in the two-game series in Japan. All 30 teams are in action Thursday, with the A’s hosting the Los Angeles Angels.

The A’s also transferred right-hander Jharel Cotton to the 60-day injured list to make room on the 40-man roster for Morales.