Passan: A’s ‘have zero desire’ to trade Shea Langeliers

Despite another disappointing season in the standings, the Athletics appear determined to keep one of the cornerstones of their franchise.

According to ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan, the A’s have made it clear to rival clubs that they have “zero desire” to trade All-Star catcher Shea Langeliers ahead of the MLB trade deadline, even as teams continue to inquire about his availability.

Passan noted that the Athletics are willing to listen on virtually anyone, but Langeliers is viewed differently.

While the club’s struggles and multiple years of team control would make him one of the most valuable catchers on the market, Oakland believes the 28-year-old is a key piece of its long-term plans.

A new top 100 trade candidates, with Mason Miller, Shea Langeliers, Zach Neto, Hunter Goodman, Francisco Lindor and Kevin Gausman joining. Fresh info on likelihood of the best players going, too. Keep following here as we’ll keep updating thorough Aug. 3: https://t.co/4DX6hlcWkx

— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) July 21, 2026

More on A’s catcher Shea Langeliers

“The A’s are always going to listen,” Passan wrote. “But they have told teams that they have zero desire to trade Shea Langeliers, who is arguably the best catcher in the big leagues.”

It’s easy to understand why.

Langeliers has continued his breakout in 2026, earning his first career All-Star selection while batting .260 with 22 home runs and 50 RBI. He has now hit at least 20 home runs in four consecutive seasons, including a career-best 31 homers in 2025, establishing himself as one of baseball’s premier power-hitting catchers.

Beyond the offensive production, Langeliers has become one of the leaders of the Athletics’ clubhouse and a steady presence behind the plate. His ability to manage a pitching staff and provide middle-of-the-order power has made him one of the organization’s most valuable players.

That value is exactly why teams have continued to check in.

With the Athletics falling well out of both the American League West race and Wild Card picture, rival executives understand that a player of Shea Langeliers’ magnitude would command an enormous return.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – APRIL 21: Shea Langeliers #23 of the Athletics reacts after his solo home run during the seventh inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on April 21, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Passan reported that moving the catcher could net the type of pitching prospects the organization desperately needs after another season in which its rotation has struggled.

Still, the Athletics appear committed to building around Shea Langeliers rather than cashing in on his value.

As the franchise prepares for its eventual move to Las Vegas in 2028, Passan believes Langeliers is expected to remain one of the faces of the organization and a centerpiece of the powerful lineup the club hopes to assemble.

While a long-term contract extension could prove challenging with Scott Boras representing Langeliers, the Athletics are signaling that trading their All-Star backstop is not part of the current plan.

For now, it appears any team hoping to pry Langeliers away before the deadline will have to look elsewhere.

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Upcoming Athletics 2026 Schedule

• Monday, July 20th – Wednesday, July 22nd – @ Arizona Diamondbacks
• Friday, July 24th – Sunday, July 26th – @ Minnesota Twins
• Monday, July 27th – Thursday, July 30th – vs. Boston Red Sox
• Friday, July 31st – Sunday, August 2nd – vs. Detroit Tigers
• Tuesday, August 4th – Thursday, August 6th – @Cincinnati Reds

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