A’s pondering dealing, keeping Hill, Reddick

CLEVELAND — The A’s are suddenly streaking. Having taken two of three from the first-place Rangers in Arlington this past week, they’ve claimed four straight series wins, seemingly emerging as late bloomers just ahead of Monday’s non-waiver Trade Deadline at 1 p.m. PT.

On Wednesday night, after his club picked up its ninth win in 13 games since the All-Star break, A’s manager Bob Melvin noted, “I know there’s some time left, but we haven’t moved anybody. We’re playing better baseball, and that certainly gives pause for thought.”

Or not.

This story has played out before. Just last year, in fact, the A’s triggered a flurry of trade activity despite improved play, sending starter Scott Kazmir to Houston on July 23 for pitcher Daniel Mengden and catcher Jacob Nottingham. At the time, Oakland was 11 games out of first place.

That’s exactly where the A’s (47-55) sat entering Thursday’s off-day in Cleveland, where they’re preparing for a three-game set against one of baseball’s best teams.

Following Kazmir’s departure last season, infielder Ben Zobrist and reliever Tyler Clippard were also soon on the move. This time, it could be Rich Hill and/or Josh Reddick, among others, exiting the door.

Or not.

Here’s a look at the A’s trade candidates, in descending order of most likely to be dealt before Monday.

Hill: Calls on Hill have certainly slowed in …

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