Why Jeff Hoffman Could Be the Perfect Fit for the A’s Bullpen

The Oakland Athletics have entered the tweaking phase of their offseason, with most roster spots set as the countdown to spring training continues. However, one potential area for improvement remains: bolstering the bullpen with a veteran arm to complement closer Mason Miller. Enter Jeff Hoffman, a seasoned right-hander whose recent resurgence makes him an intriguing candidate for the A’s.

Hoffman’s Journey: From Struggles to Stardom

Hoffman’s career path has been anything but conventional. Drafted ninth overall by the Toronto Blue Jays in 2014, he was shipped to Colorado as part of the Troy Tulowitzki trade. Pitching in the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field, he struggled to a 6.40 ERA over five seasons.

A move to the Cincinnati Reds in 2020 offered a fresh start, and Hoffman improved to a 4.28 ERA across two seasons. Still, his breakthrough didn’t come until he joined the Philadelphia Phillies in 2023 after a brief stint with the Minnesota Twins.

In Philadelphia, Hoffman evolved into one of baseball’s most reliable relievers. Over two seasons, he posted a stellar 2.28 ERA, backed by a 2.54 FIP, in 118 2/3 innings. His transformation earned him an All-Star nod in 2024 and firmly established him as a premier bullpen arm.

Why Hoffman Fits the A’s

Hoffman’s slider has been a game-changer. After increasing its usage to 47.9% in 2023 and 40.8% in 2024, opponents struggled mightily, hitting just .074 against it in his breakout season and .198 last year. This pitch alone has made him a strikeout machine, boasting a 33.6% strikeout rate in 2024—third only to Mason Miller and Michel Otañez among current A’s pitchers.

Adding Hoffman to the mix would not only provide manager Mark Kotsay with a reliable setup man but also bolster a bullpen already brimming with potential. With projections showing only Mason Miller, Jeffrey Springs, and Luis Severino surpassing two wins above replacement (WAR), Hoffman’s ability to generate 2.0 WAR in a relief role could make him one of the team’s most valuable assets.

A Multi-Faceted Role

While Hoffman has proven his worth as a reliever, there’s talk that teams, including the New York Mets, are exploring him as a potential starter. For the A’s, this could open up a unique opportunity. They could give Hoffman a shot in the rotation, knowing he could seamlessly transition back to the bullpen if needed.

Financially Feasible

Hoffman is reportedly seeking a contract similar to the three-year, $38 million deal signed by Clay Holmes. This aligns with Oakland’s spending goals, as the team needs to hit the $105 million payroll threshold to avoid grievances from the MLB Players Association.

The Bottom Line

Adding Hoffman would be a win-win for the A’s. Whether as a starter or a high-leverage reliever, his skill set fills a critical need for a team aiming to compete deeper into the season. His presence could solidify a bullpen anchored by Mason Miller and provide a veteran presence that elevates the entire pitching staff.

With spring training fast approaching, the A’s should strongly consider making Jeff Hoffman their next big move.