30 A's in 30 Days – Eric Patterson

Acquired: Traded from Chicago Cubs (with SP Sean Gallagher, C Josh Donaldson and OF Matt Murton) for SP Rich Harden and RP Chad Gaudin (July 8, 2008).

Contract: One year thru 2010. (Not yet eligible for arbitration.)
Position: IF, OF and out of minor league options.

Projected BA/OBP/SLG: (.258/.322/.392)

Over/Under: In last year's "30 A's…" feature, I was able to find appropriate angles on exactly 15 hitters and 15 pitchers. This year, I've done write-ups of 15 hitters and 12 pitchers, with the only arms remaining either injured (Joey Devine, Josh Outman) or uninteresting (Jerry Blevins, Brad Kilby). Fortunately, the A's have dialed up the drama regarding their pending decision on the roster's "25th man". Patterson is battling Jake Fox for the team's lone IF/OF bench role.

Both players are out of options and can't be sent to the minors without first clearing waivers. Patterson, 26, is a year younger than Fox, but Fox (.252/.305/.457 in 230 ABs) has a more impressive small sample career than Patterson (.233/.320/.310 in 232 ABs). Fox has had a terrible spring, but he's right-handed and could see legitimate time at 1B or DH vs. LHPs. Both guys seem redundant, but I still think Fox wins the job. Oh, and take the UNDER. If the 98-pound Patterson slugs .392, I'll punch myself in the mouth.

By the Numbers: 10 – I was shocked to see that Eric Patterson's brother Corey has played in parts of ten big league seasons. He was the #3 prospect in the game – according to Baseball America – in 2000 and then moved up to #2 in 2001. His perseverance has inspired me to hold on to those Jeffrey Hammonds and Marc Newfield rookie cards.

Surefire 2010 Prediction: Patterson will be dealt to a National League team before the start of the regular season.

Tupac Track for the Season: Wake Me When I'm Free