When the Oakland A’s traded for Joe Boyle, sending lefty reliever Sam Moll to Cincinnati, they were looking at Boyle as a potential high-upside starter. The move paid early dividends for both teams: Moll thrived in the Reds bullpen with a lights-out 0.73 ERA and 0.97 WHIP, while Boyle flashed his potential for Oakland in a trio of late-season starts, posting an impressive 1.69 ERA. But as 2024 unfolded, Boyle’s season took a rocky turn.
Despite a promising start, Boyle struggled to find his footing over a full season, finishing 2024 with a 6.42 ERA and a problematic 17.7% walk rate across 47 2/3 innings. While injuries to other starters initially opened a spot for him in the rotation, Boyle’s inconsistent command became a recurring issue, frequently forcing A’s manager Mark Kotsay to go to the bullpen earlier than planned. His bouts with control were often costly, sapping the bullpen’s strength for days afterward.
Heading into 2025, the A’s are facing a crucial decision with Boyle. If he can prove himself as a reliable starter, his electric stuff could be a huge asset for the rotation. But if his control issues persist, the A’s might consider transitioning him to the bullpen, where he could play a role similar to the one Mason Miller carved out as a multi-inning weapon. Miller’s successful transition to the closer role in 2024 highlighted the value of a high-velocity, controlled arm in late-game situations—qualities Boyle could bring if he adjusts to a relief role.
The likely path for Boyle in 2025 will involve starting the season as a starter, either in the majors or in Triple-A, with a goal of giving him one last chance to lock down a rotation spot. If he hasn’t shown consistent improvement by the trade deadline, the A’s could consider shifting him to the bullpen, where shorter stints might allow him to harness his raw power and mitigate his command issues. A midseason return of left-hander Ken Waldichuk could further influence this decision, adding competition in the rotation.
The A’s have some flexibility here. Boyle, still just 25, has two minor-league options remaining, giving Oakland time to determine how best to maximize his talents. Whether he develops into a frontline starter or a reliable bullpen arm, Boyle remains a valuable asset for a club focused on developing its young core.
For the A’s, the 2025 season will be pivotal in shaping Boyle’s future—and whether his powerful arm will be a part of their long-term blueprint.
