Athletics Assign Ken Waldichuk for Roster Decision
The Athletics have made a significant roster decision by designating left-handed pitcher Ken Waldichuk for assignment. This move opens a spot on the 40-man roster for infielder/outfielder Jeff McNeil, who was acquired from the New York Mets.
A Closer Look at Ken Waldichuk
Ken Waldichuk, who will turn 28 in January, was previously considered a promising prospect during his time with the New York Yankees. He joined the Athletics in a notable trade at the 2022 deadline, which involved sending Frankie Montas and Lou Trivino to New York.
In 2022, Waldichuk made a positive impression during his debut season with the A’s. He started seven games and posted a 4.93 earned run average (ERA), a strikeout rate of 22.6%, and a walk rate of 6.8%. However, his performance dipped in 2023, where he recorded a 5.36 ERA across 141 innings pitched.
Injuries and Recovery
Waldichuk’s 2024 season did not see him take the mound in the major leagues, as he underwent Tommy John surgery in May. After his recovery, he was activated from the injured list in July and subsequently optioned to the minor leagues.
- 2022 debut: 7 starts, 4.93 ERA
- 2023 performance: 5.36 ERA in 141 innings
- 2024 surgery: Tommy John surgery in May
- 2025 minor league ERA: 8.17 with a walk rate of 15.9%
Future Outlook for Waldichuk
Waldichuk qualified for arbitration at the end of the season as a Super Two player. He reached an agreement with the Athletics to avoid arbitration, settling on a salary of $825,000 for the upcoming year, which is slightly higher than the $780,000 league minimum.
As Waldichuk enters DFA limbo, the Athletics have until the end of the year to either trade him or place him on waivers. The period for designating players typically lasts a week, but this timeline is paused during the holiday season. If Waldichuk goes unclaimed on waivers, he will not have the option to elect free agency due to his lack of three years of service time or a prior outright.
Despite disappointing numbers recently, there is potential for Waldichuk to improve if he continues to recover from his surgery. Teams seeking pitching depth may find him an appealing reclamation project, as he still has a couple of options remaining.
