“Love in the Time of Non-Tenders: A’s Hunting for Hidden Gems?”
In the world of baseball, the non-tender season is like a treasure hunt, where teams sift through overlooked players in search of diamonds in the rough. But here’s where it gets intriguing: not every non-tendered player is a lost cause. Some are simply victims of circumstance, outgrown roles, or temporary slumps. And this is the part most people miss—these players could be the missing piece for a team like the Oakland A’s, who are quietly scouting for value. Let’s dive into a few names that might just spark a debate among fans.
Jason Foley, 30 - RP
The A’s bullpen could use a boost, and Foley, despite being non-tendered by the Tigers, fits the bill. Known for inducing ground balls (a career 54.1% rate), he’s a natural match for the A’s, especially in their Sacramento ballpark. While his strikeout rate dipped in 2025, his sinkerball style makes this less alarming. The bigger question? His ground ball rate dropped by 10%, yet he still posted a solid 3.15 ERA. Is this a red flag or a blip?
Ian Hamilton, 30 - RP
Hamilton, one of four Yankees relievers non-tendered, is a polarizing figure. His fastball lost a tick, and his walk rate jumped—reasons enough for the Yankees to part ways. But here’s the twist: he’s consistently struck out over a batter per inning for three years and was tough to hit in 2025, even with a shaky defense behind him. Are his struggles a sign of decline, or is there untapped potential?
Jonah Heim, 30 - C
Once an A’s prospect, Heim’s journey took him to Texas, where he shone in 2023 before fading. Now, as he transitions to a backup role, the A’s might see value. His defensive skills and occasional power make him a solid fit, though his left-handed struggles and potential cost could be concerns. Is he a luxury backup or a risky bet?
Ramon Urias, 31 - 3B/2B
After a disappointing 2025, Urias is looking to rebound. His brother’s stint with the A’s in 2025 adds an interesting twist, but Ramon’s track record is hard to ignore. A career 104 wRC+ hitter with strong defensive metrics, his consistency against both lefties and righties makes him a reliable option. Is his down year an anomaly, or the start of a trend?
Jacob Webb, 32 - RP
Webb, non-tendered by the Rangers, had a quietly impressive 2025. His career 2.99 ERA and improved walk rate are highlights, though his strikeout rate dipped. With a steady fastball and a high-WAR season in 2024, he’s a low-risk, high-reward option. Can he maintain his success, or was 2025 a fluke?
The Controversy Corner: Who’s Worth the Gamble?
Non-tendered players are often seen as damaged goods, but history shows they can be game-changers. Are the A’s onto something with these picks, or are they settling for second-best? Which of these players would you sign, or do you have another name in mind? November is Armchair GM Month—let’s hear your take in the comments. Who’s your hidden gem?
