Athletics predicted to sign Phillies' 'low-cost' utilityman for Leo De Vries reason

The Athletics will be looking to make massive improvements to the roster before moving to Las Vegas in 2028. 

They've already signed several players to long-term extensions. 

Leo De Vries, the No. 2 prospect in baseball, could be the A's starting shortstop in the next few seasons. He was the centerpiece in the trade that sent closer Mason Miller to the San Diego Padres. 

But De Vries' recent season-ending shoulder surgery makes it doubtful that he will crack the A's Opening Day roster in 2027. He may need more time to develop in the minors after he is fully healthy. 

That's why Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter predicts the A's will sign a veteran infielder from the Philadelphia Phillies who is an impending free agent. 

"A bounce-back season from Zack Gelof should lock him into a starting spot at second base or third base. Whichever position he doesn't fill will be the storyline heading into spring training," Reuter wrote. 

"Top prospect Leo De Vries had a shot at winning an Opening Day roster spot before undergoing shoulder surgery that will sideline him into next year, leaving someone like Edmundo Sosa or Amed Rosario as a logical low-cost target to bolster the infield," he added. 

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Reuter has Sosa batting ninth and playing third base on Opening Day for the A's. However, the 30-year-old can play all around the diamond, including a corner outfield spot. 

In 77 games this season, Sosa is hitting .238/.278/.397 with seven home runs and a 79 OPS+. 

Sosa has been a useful bench bat for the Phillies in recent seasons. Signing a one- or two-year deal with the A's for more playing time would make a ton of sense. 

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