Billy McKinney spent a solid chunk of the 2021 season at the Major League level with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but now has headed to the American League. The Oakland Athletics announced the signing of McKinney to a Minor League contract with a non-roster invitation to Spring Training.
McKinney played in 116 games for the Dodgers, managing a 0.3 WAR and 73 wRC+ across 300 plate appearances. The Dodgers utilized McKinney as a defensive replacement and pinch-hitter most of the time, but he also carved out a significant role down the stretch due to the team’s injury-plagued roster.
Despite some of his struggles at the plate, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts continued to praise the at-bat quality and defensive presence McKinney provided.
McKinney, 27, is entering his fifth MLB season and now has been a member of six different organizations.
The Dodgers appear to have more than enough bench depth this season to withstand potential injuries. That was not the case in 2021, which created an opportunity for McKinney after he was acquired in a trade with the New York Mets.
The Athletics figure to be a sub.-500 team this season after having a full sale of the top players on their roster. The A’s have traded Matt Chapman, Matt Olson and Chris Bassitt, with more potential moves on the way.
Because of all the player movement, McKinney could work himself into an everyday role with Oakland if he performs well in camp.
McKinney takes a career .215/.286/.404 batting line into Oakland after once being a promising prospect in the New York Yankees organization.
Dodgers traded McKinney
McKinney’s time with the Dodgers came to an end when along with Zach Reks, he was designated for assignment last November as corresponding moves to create room for Jacob Amaya, Michael Grove, Eddys Leonard, James Outman and Jorbit Vivas on the 40-man roster.
McKinney and Reks were then traded to the Texas Rangers two days later in exchange for cash considerations. The Rangers non-tendered McKinney, which made him a free agent and paved the way to eventually signing with Oakland.
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