--RHP Justin Duchscherer filed for arbitration, and his agent told Media News that he and the team have significant differences about "what's fair." Duchscherer, 30, is the only Oakland starter with more than 240 innings of experience, and he is a two-time All-Star. Going from relief to the rotation last year should boost his salary ($1.2 million last year) considerably, but Duchscherer missed two months with a recurrence of a hip injury.
--DH/OF Jack Cust, Oakland's top home-run hitter and RBI man last year, agreed to a $2.8 million deal for 2009 that helped the sides avoid arbitration. Cust made $410,000 in 2008 and hit 33 homers. He is expected to play in the outfield, at least initially, because of Jason Giambi's signing. --1B Daric Barton told MLB.com that he is looking forward to playing with Jaosn Giambi even if Giambi takes away some of the youngster's playing time. Barton said he believes Giambi will make the club better, and he hopes to pick Giambi's brain about hitting. Manager Bob Geren recently said he considers Barton the team's starting first baseman.
--LHP Dennys Reyes was linked to the A's in a Foxsports.com report. Oakland is known to be seeking some veteran relief help after choosing not to pick LHP Alan Embree's option, and Reyes had a 2.33 ERA for the Twins last year. Lefties hit .202 against him.
--1B Nick Johnson continued to be rumored in connection with the A's. The team requested Johnson's medical reports from the Nationals after last season, and Washington is among the clubs believed to have interest in young A's first baseman Daric Barton. Oakland recently signed Jason Giambi, who can play first on a semi-regular basis if needed, and Johnson could provide excellent defensive work at the position in a backup role.
BY THE NUMBERS: 10 -- The most victories by an Oakland starter in 2008. All-Star Justin Duchscherer went 10-8, but his season was shortened by the reoccurence of a hip injury late in the season.
QUOTE TO NOTE: "Look at everything he's done. Look at his numbers. I've just always admired the way he plays the game. It's going to be a privilege to be the guy's teammate." -- 1B Daric Barton on the team's signing of Jason Giambi.
