2009 MLB Team Preview: Oakland

Barton hit a pathetic .226 with only 9 HR and 47 RBIs. Those aren't the numbers teams crave. He's going nowhere in a hurry and could lose his job by mid March.

He should be higher on this list, but with the A's committed to Barton, at least for now, Giambi's big numbers will probably come as a DH.

With good range and with agility to match, Ellis is probably one of the best defensive second basemen in the league. However, he's offensively challenged with below average bat speed and little pop.

The former promising talent is clinging to his starting job and makes for a risky selection in 2009 (especially considering the A's are still in the mix to sign free agent Orlando Cabrera). His 2008 season was a disaster as the AL Rookie of the Year in 2004 hit only .23. He has yet to top 10 HRs since his 22 HR campaign in 2004 and numerous injuries have prevented from finding any consistency at the plate. He is probably only worthy of a draft selection in AL -only leagues.

The oft-injured slugger has only played 113 games the past two years due to various injuries (only 23 games in 2008). Shoulder surgery in August may sideline him for the beginning of spring training. He has some sleeper potential in AL-only leagues.

The 25 year old provides durability and a solid AVG. but limited power. The Athletics seem committed to him behind the plate, giving him 530 at-bats in 2008.

Many are worried about Holliday's jump from launching pad Coors field to McAfee stadium in Oakland. Those who don't will be rewarded greatly.

Speaking of drafting a player for only one reason, Cust brings big power and nothing else. A poor mans Adam Dunn and some good late round power.

The strikeout king (197 K's in 2008) blasted 33 homers and 77 RBIs in 2008. He'll never hit over .250 but is an excellent source of power and does walk a ton so will be an asset for leagues that count on base %.

He made the move from emerging middle reliever to vaunted starting pitcher look easy last season. He must increase his K totals to rank higher on this board.

Sidewing motion caught American League batters by surprise. But how long can the novelty last? He lacks a dominate pitch. He's good for 30 saves. Too many shortcomings to overcome.

A 6-1, 0.59 ERA season could be a sign of things to come. Devine has promising stuff. He will play little (as a closer at least) in Oakland, but should blossom somewhere else. He's a player to watch.