Athletics decline team options on 2 mainstays from 2026

The Athletics have let go of two mainstays in their 2026 lineup.

Second baseman Jeff McNeil and left-handed starter Jeffrey Springs had their 2027 team options declined, the A’s announced Friday.

Both players are now unrestricted free agents.

McNeil, a nine-year veteran, was acquired by the A’s from the New York Mets with cash for minor-leaguer Yordan Rodriguez. McNeil, a career .281 hitter, compiled a .264 batting average with the A’s last season and drove in 59 runs.

Springs, also a nine-year veteran, was dealt to the A’s two years ago in December for three minor-leaguers and a draft pick. He had a 15-25 record and a 5.05 ERA in two years with the A’s.

Springs’ release signals a new direction for the pitching rotation since he was brought in as the No. 1 starter.

McNeil’s absence opens the door for a new second baseman. Or it allows another infielder to make the move to second and ease the glut at shortstop.

The possibilities include A’s shortstop Jacob Wilson, Triple-A Las Vegas Aviators shortstop Drew Swift or Double-A Midland RockHounds shortstop Leo De Vries. Wilson was the runner-up for rookie of the year in 2025, Swift had a breakout season in 2026. De Vries — the key player in the Mason Miller trade — is one of the top prospects in baseball, but recovering from shoulder surgery.