One of the biggest issues for the A's last season was their bullpen. They finished with the worst bullpen ERA in baseball, and one of their main struggles was the inconsistency in the late innings.

The team never had a true closer. Elvis Alvarado was supposed to be the team's main closer, but his struggles got him sent down to Triple-A. He came back later in the season to serve as the closer again, but he could be an elite middle reliever rather than relying on him in the ninth inning.

Sep 23, 2026; West Sacramento, California, USA; Athletics pitcher Elvis Alvarado (37) reacts after the game against the Los Angeles Angels at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

With a new President of Baseball Operations, the A's will now be led by Taylor Smith. Smith will see the holes in the bullpen and look for possible replacements.…