Thoughts on Thomas

Mychael Urban's article made some definate connections as to the A's interest in Frank Thomas. Apparently Beane defines him as a "great presence" and goes on to say Thomas' picture would be next to "presence" in the dictionary. I'd say the candid quotes make it pretty certain that Thomas is going to be an A so long as the White Sox do not offer arbitration, which is likely.

However, once Thomas is off the market, the A's have to be ready to pounce on another hitter, an outfielder to be exact. Payton had a flukish August and Brad Wilkerson, who the Jays are after, could be had and represent an upgrade to the position. There is also the Milton Bradley possibly as the Cubs no longer seem to be looking at him and instead are focusing on Juan Pierre.