The Athletics recently signed left-handed pitcher Matt Krook to a minor league contract, as reported in his transaction log on MLB.com. Krook, who is 30 years old, became a free agent earlier this month.
Back in 2013, the Marlins drafted Krook out of high school in Competitive Balance Round A. However, a left shoulder injury discovered during his physical prevented him from signing with the team. Subsequently, an elbow injury during his freshman season at the University of Oregon led him to undergo Tommy John surgery.
In 2016, Krook was selected by the Giants in the fourth round of the draft, where he signed and joined the organization. After a couple of seasons in the Giants’ farm system, he was part of a trade that brought Evan Longoria to San Francisco from the Rays. Krook was later selected by the Yankees in the minor league phase of the Rule 5 draft and eventually added to their 40-man roster to prevent him from entering minor league free agency.
Krook transitioned to a full-time reliever in 2023 with the Yankees, making his MLB debut that season. Despite struggles with control, his minor league numbers were stellar. However, he was designated for assignment by the Yankees in the offseason.
The Orioles claimed Krook and he performed decently in Triple-A, but only had a brief stint with the team in 2024. Looking to bounce back, Krook will now have a chance to prove himself with the A’s in 2025. With opportunity for playing time in the bullpen, he will aim to make a strong impression during spring training.
