FREE HAT

Scott Hatteberg has signed a two year extension that runs through 2005 and includes a team option for 2006...HUH?

Is this a sign and trade deal?

With as many young hitters as the A's have coming up through the minor leagues, why would Billy Beane ink a deal to keep a 1B/DH around for 2 1/2 more seasons who has become less than adequate with the glove?

The A's would be better off trading Hatteberg and calling up Graham Koonce or even attempting to put Adam Piatt at 1st base. We thought for sure Hatteberg was headed to Seattle at the end of the year as John Olerud is rumored to be leaning toward retirement.

Mid-season signings never make sense, though.

We love Hatteberg when he's raking, but, his groundball-itis is eating us up. At least he gets on base, though. He still ahs ownership rights to right centerfield...he's just not utilizing them enough.