OAKLAND, Calif. -- The Oakland Athletics acquired third baseman Jake Fox, second baseman Aaron Miles and cash considerations from the Chicago Cubs on Thursday for three players.
The Cubs got right-handed pitcher Jeff Gray, minor league outfielder Matt Spencer and minor league righty Ronny Morla.
The trade gives Oakland added depth in an infield that has been injury plagued in recent seasons. While general manager Billy Beane hopes six-time Gold Glove third baseman Eric Chavez will be healthy after season-ending back surgery, the A's knew they needed a contingency plan.
Chavez could now spend a good chunk of his time as designated hitter. The last-place A's recently signed free-agent third baseman Dallas McPherson to a minor league contract and invited him to spring training.
Fox gives Oakland versatility considering he also plays the outfield. In two stays with the Cubs this year, he hit .259 with 11 home runs and 44 RBIs in 82 games. He began the season at Triple-A Iowa, batting .409 with 17 home runs and 53 RBIs in 45 games.
The Athletics were looking for some much-needed pop from the right side, and wanted Fox.
"He can hit. We've always liked his bat," assistant GM David Forst said.
