Options In Oakland: Chavez, Crisp, Ellis & Geren

What to do, what to do, in this crazy world? That’s probably the question circulating around Oakland’s front office right about now, whether they admit it or not. After this season, the A’s will have plenty of work to do, as they have several players with options for the 2011 season. Among them are Eric Chavez, Coco Crisp, Mark Ellis and manager Bob Geren.

The A’s are certain to not pick up Chavez’s $12.5 million option for 2011, and are most likely to buy him out at the cost of $3 million. Considering how little Chavez has played in the last four seasons, it’s difficult to imagine him coming back at all next season with the A’s. The longest-tenured Oakland player, Chavez hopes to return, however, for the last month of the season. He’s currently on the 60-day DL (neck/back).

With Crisp, however, the A’s may be enticed to pick up his $5.75 million option. Despite his long history of injuries, Crisp is a skilled defensive player who has also swung the bat considerably well this season with Oakland. In 46 games this season, Crisp is batting .277/.342/.441 with four home runs and 25 RBIs. On the flip side, however, Oakland does have a couple skilled prospects knocking on the door (i.e. Chris Carter & Michael Taylor). Either way, don’t be surprised to see Crisp back with the green-and-gold next season.

Ellis, who’s been with the team for nine seasons, could be in his last season with the green-and-gold. The A’s 2B, 33, would be due $6 million next season if the A’s pick up his option. The question then becomes: is he worth $6 million? Ellis is a proven defender, and a front office favorite. This season, however, Ellis is batting .260/.330/.329 with two home runs and 31 RBIs. The A’s will have a tough time deciding whether or not to keep Ellis around next season, especially since the team has been leaning towards getting younger and not older.

And finally, we come to the infamous Bob Geren. Geren, who is A’s GM/VP Billy Beane’s best friend, seems to be a virtual lock to come back next season. Given the team’s numerous injuries and learning curve, the A’s skipper is probably a favorite to come back next season. After next season, however, it’s anyone’s guess where Geren will end up. The A’s are poised to make a run next season, especially since their young rotation is on the rise.