As you get ready to celebrate Thanksgiving in a few weeks, please take a moment to think of John Lackey, because his worst nightmare just came true.

The 30-year-old righty, who posted a 12-5 record with a 3.75 ERA this past regular season, was probably licking his chops at the idea of feasting on feeble AL West lineups in 2009, boosting his numbers before hitting the market as a free agent in 2010. Read more »

Although the 2008 MLB free agency period has yet to set sail, one of the off-season’s biggest fish is already swimming towards the west coast.

The Oakland Athletics acquired outfielder Matt Holliday from the Colorado Rockies on Monday. In exchange, the Athletics are sending closer Huston Street, outfielder Carlos Gonzalez and pitcher Greg Smith a mile high. Read more »

The time is nearing to buy up shares of Oakland A’s outfielder Carlos Gonzalez. The season numbers are still a little light to help a fantasy team, but there are plenty of reasons to think he’s turning it around. Gonzalez is one of the game’s best hitting prospects, and he’s showing a veteran’s poise in clutch situations.

The prototype for an A’s offensive player, Gonzalez came to Oakland in the preseason trade for right-hander Dan Haren. While other acquisitions Dana Eveland and Greg Smith have been more solid contributors in 2008, Gonzalez was the crown jewel of the deal. He has the body of a young Carlos Beltran and is an excellent five-tool athlete. Read more »