Beane traded two of the three, Tim Hudson and Mark Mulder, to the Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals (respectively); in both instances, he received prospects in return.
The surge was brought about, in large part, by the strong pitching of young starters Dan Haren (received in the Mulder trade), Rich Harden, and Joe Blanton.
In the end, though, the team fell short; a collapse in the second half of the 2005 season, combined with a dramatic Angels surge, saw the Athletics finish seven games out of first place.
The 2005 season also saw Athletics closer Huston Street win the American League Rookie of the Year Award.
Infielders Coaches Note: Pos = Position; G = Games played; AB = At bats; H = Hits; Avg.