Inbox: Chances A’s trade a core player?

We know Sonny Gray, Stephen Vogt and Sean Doolittle are available in trades. But what’s the likelihood of each getting traded? — Alex R., No location given

My guess is all stay put, and here’s why: I don’t believe the A’s are quite ready to move on a trade for Gray, and my guess is they hold out hope he can up his value and be the best available pitcher at the Trade Deadline next summer. Vogt will surely be fodder for trade discussions — and he already is in a seemingly non-existent catching market — but his bat may not be enough to convince teams eyeing a valuable defensive presence behind the plate to swing a deal. Doolittle is perhaps the most likely of the three to be moved, but the A’s would do well in keeping this affordable power lefty in house, for his value to them extends beyond the mound.

• Hot Stove Tracker

Why do the A’s seem to open the regular season at home every year and finish on the road? Of course, this results in the Giants doing the opposite. If the A’s are battling down to the last game, normally it would be to their benefit to finish at home. I understand they played worse at home last year, but that usually would not be the case. — Gregg R., No location given

The A’s only start at home because the Giants request road openers. As you alluded to, the Giants make the request because they know it gives them a better chance to have more home games later in …

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