Athletics, Josh Reddick will continue extension talks

Oakland will again open contract extension talks with outfielder Josh Reddick ahead of the non-waiver trade deadline, according to FOX Sports’ Ken Rosenthal.

Reddick and the A’s have discussed an extension in the past, but Oakland was hoping he would sign a three-year deal while Reddick sought a four-year contract, Rosenthal notes.

If the two sides are unable to reach a deal, the Athletics will likely consider moving Reddick in the coming weeks. Oakland wouldn’t be opposed to keeping him on the roster and giving him a qualifying offer, which would give the A’s a draft pick if Reddick signs elsewhere, according to Rosenthal.

Oakland attempted to extend Reddick during Spring Training but was unsuccessful.

Reddick, 29, has been on the disabled list since the middle of May with a fractured thumb. However, he’s started a rehab assignment and might be in a position to join the Athletics on Monday.

Before he went down, Reddick was thriving offensively, batting .322/.394/.466 with five home runs and 18 RBIs over 41 games.

Since there are not many productive outfielders set to become free agents at the end of the season, Reddick could receive an extensive deal this winter. The Athletics appear to be confident they will at least receive a draft pick if they lose Reddick to free agency, though, so the asking price might be still be high.

If Reddick, a career .255 hitter, does become a free agent this winter, the Athletics could be forced to consider other outfield options.