Athletics sign RHP Joel Kuhnel

Sentiment Analysis

The Athletics' signing of RHP Joel Kuhnel has landed squarely in positive territory with media outlets treating it as a sensible, low-risk depth move that reflects Oakland's measured approach to rebuilding its bullpen. Coverage of Kuhnel's recent DFA and subsequent recall highlighted the organization's willingness to churn through roster options, but the narrative around this deal emphasizes something more stable—genuine organizational confidence that he's found a sustainable role in the A's pen. Rather than positioning him as a star acquisition, outlets have framed Kuhnel as a reliable placeholder, the kind of serviceable middle reliever who can hold down innings while younger arms develop in the system. Fans are aligned with that modest expectation, viewing him as a reasonable contributor who keeps the bullpen functional without inflating hopes or burning assets. The A's signal here is clarity: Kuhnel projects as a stick-around arm if his command holds, which is exactly the type of pedestrian but valuable depth piece a rebuilding club needs.