A's Set Surprising Parameters On Sean Murphy Trade

Yes, premium catcher Sean Murphy is available for trade from the Oakland A's. We've heard the rumors for some time now. But the team has made it clear at the Winter Meetings that they're only looking for major league-ready talent in return. Not prospects. This would probably come as a surprise to most teams. 

Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic reports, in fact, that the Athletics' front office says that "despite reports of a Murphy trade being close, say no team has separated itself in the discussions."

In addition, the A's have made it clear that "they will keep the catcher if they do not receive a satisfactory trade offer."

Murphy is one of the prime backstops available on a busy catcher's market this offseason, with Willson Contreras and Christian Vazquez (since signed) coming in as free agents, and Murphy and the trio of Toronto Blue Jays catchers all being shopped. 

The 28-year-old Murphy stands out as bringing it on both sides of the ball, being a Gold Glover behind the plate, and adding some nice pop at the dish (18 HR this past season).

He also has three years of team control remaining before he could enter free agency. The price tag will be high on any trade package.