Athletics Face Trade Deadline Decisions

The Athletics are 41-52, on a L6 streak, after losing 4-1 @ Detroit Tigers on July 9.

What happened?

Brent Rooker, the Athletics' two-time All-Star designated hitter, is undergoing season-ending surgery to address a knee injury.

He was added to the 10-day injured list on June 12, but any chance of his return has now been shut down.

Why it matters for Athletics

The injury raises questions about whether the team will be buyers or sellers at the trade deadline, with MLB Network's Jon Morosi believing it likely makes the Athletics sellers.

Morosi said the news felt like a real push in the direction to sell instead of buy, especially considering Rooker's importance to the Athletics' lineup.

What comes next?

The coming weeks will decide what general manager David Forst feels is best for the team, with right fielder Carlos Cortes and catcher Jonah Heim potential trade candidates.

The Athletics are still chasing a postseason spot, just three games back from the lead in the American League West and a wild card spot.

And despite their losing record, they have eyes on a potential postseason spot, with the Aug. 3 trade deadline approaching.

But the timing of the news raises even more questions about the team's direction.

So the Athletics must continue without one of their top hitters until 2027.

The team's standing, 13th in the American League, makes their trade deadline decisions even more critical.