AP Photo/David ZalubowskiThe Oakland Athletics could be out of the running if Trevor Story, Colorado Rockies' star shortstop, is traded before the July 30 deadline.Jeff Passan, ESPN's sports analyst, stated that the A's were the "most obvious match" but said they are unlikely to play in Story. He suggested that Oakland might prefer to focus on the outfield in preparation for the stretch.Story will be eligible for free agency following this season. It seems unlikely that he'll remain in Colorado. At 33-47, the Rockies rank fourth in the National League West. The trade of Nolan Arenado is a clear example of the dysfunction that has plagued the team for many years.It would not be surprising if Story was offered a large contract by the front office if Colorado wanted to let go of Arenado, who is one of the most important players in Colorado's history.Passan however noted that the Rockies might not have a strong market for the 28 year-old. His imminent free agency will limit the number of potential suitors for teams that are in contention to make the playoffs. The clubs that have the best chance at reaching the playoffs don't need to upgrade their shortstop.In this regard, the A's seem outliers.They are 1.5 games behind the Houston Astros' first-place team in the American League West. This makes them a contender. Oakland could use some help in the left field.FanGraphs has Elvis Andrus'.226/.295/.563 line and ranks 26th among qualified shortstops (minus-0.2) in WAR.Story is hitting.446 with nine homers and 36 RBI. Oakland and others may question Story's value away from Coors Field with his.184 road batting average this year. Baseball Reference also shows a notable home (.982)-road (.750) split in OPS throughout his career.However, Andrus would have a better offensive line if Story was not from Coors Field.The Athletics seem to have lost interest in the two-time All-Star. This raises the chances that the Rockies will see a valuable trade asset only yield a pick for compensation in the offseason.
