Here's Jonny!

It appears as though the A's will be getting some representation from Sonoma County heading into next season. Petaluma's own pride and joy, Jonny Gomes, is reportedly incredibly close to sporting green and gold in 2012. The news was broken publicly by Susan Slusser via twitter, citing that a source close to Gomes stated that "He will most likely sign as soon as Monday". This supposed add reasures Beane's statement of adding yet another outfielder after the Seth Smith trade that sent Moscoso and Outman to Colorado.
The plan seems to platoon Smith and Gomes in Left. The two, despite small sample sizes, have blatant disparities between left and right handed pitchers. Smith, the former Rockie, hit .290 in 1210 at bats vs righties, while he hit a mere .202 with a .269 OBP in 240 at bats vs lefties. Gomes on the other hand demonstrates hitting of the opposite quality, a specialty in batting against left handed pitching. Gomes hit .281 with a .375 OBP lifetime vs lefties and a .224 average with a .306 OBP against righties. Gomes hit just .167 last season off of right handed pitchers last season (He hit .311 with a .407 OBP last year against... Yep, lefties). If anything, Gomes will draw his usual cheering section to the coliseum and boost attendance, and he could morph into a fan favorite with his local connectivity and infectious humor. This deal that could very well be officially announced by the end of the weekend represents a signifigant drop-off in plate appearances for Colin Cowgill and a triple-A assignment for Michael Taylor.
Another interesting piece of information to look out for is the relationship between Coco Crisp and Jonny Gomes. In a benches clearing brawl that took place at a Boston/Tampa Bay game back in 2008 (That began by Coco rushing the mound after getting hit by a James Shields pitch), Gomes proceded to defend his pitcher (Gomes was currently with Tapma Bay at the time) and pound Coco repeatedly while on the ground. Both Coco and Gomes were ejected from the game. It's only been 3 1/2 years, but as adults and now teammates, I figure they can resolve their differences.
Another informational quip was released this morning as well. The A's are reportedly shopping Brandon Allen. Allen's hot start in Oakland gradually diminished, fighting to remain above the Mendoza line. However, if he remains on the roster, he would most likely become the starting first baseman. But, if Allen departs, Barton would most likely claim first with Carter and Kila sharing the DH duties. The reason for a move of Brandon Allen would most likely be to free a roster spot for Gomes. Nothing is offficial yet however.