DIEKMAN DEALT TO OAKLAND
The Oakland Athletics acquired pitcher Jake Diekman from the Kansas City Royals for pitcher Ismael Aquino and outfielder Dairon Blanco.
What does it give the Oakland Athletics
In Diekman, the Athletics land a quality left-handed reliever who can pitch in the late innings. He will likely serve in a setup role in front of Liam Hendriks and Blake Treinen in Oakland. Diekman is a solid acquisition.
What does it give the Kansas City Royals
In Aquino, the Royals get a very young pitching prospect with plenty of upside (and loads of wildness). He will need time. As for Blanco, he is a speedy outfielder who has a chance to receive some playing time in KC this year.
Fantasy impact
Diekman should see more hold opportunities in Oakland, but his value remains the same in leagues that do not provide that fantasy statistic. Aquino should not be on the keeper-league radar but he is several years away from fantasy prominence. As for Blanco, his speed could become a fantasy factor but he has yet to play above Double-A ball. So, he too is more of a long-range option.
