MESA, Ariz. — One phone call to Scott Emerson cemented Chris Bassitt’s crucial role with the Oakland A’s this year.
Bassitt made the call to his pitching coach last season with one simple message: “Just use me however you want me to use me.”
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It’s his swingman versatility — an ability to adjust out of the bullpen for an inning, or long relief, or even to close and prepare for a start within the same breath — that could make Bassitt a linchpin. With young arms like Jesús Luzardo and A.J. Puk’s workload closely monitored, this talented pitching staff will require some pitchers be flexible in their contributions.