During the 2008–09 offseason, the team added numerous hitters through both trades and free agent signings.
Holliday was acquired from the Colorado Rockies in exchange for rookie outfielder Carlos González, starting pitcher Greg Smith, and closer Huston Street.
Oakland also added a handful of veterans via free agency; these included Orlando Cabrera, Nomar Garciaparra, and former Athletics superstar Jason Giambi.
The signings were meant to improve the team's offense, which was the American League's worst (as measured by number of runs scored) in 2008.
While the Athletics' offense improved considerably in 2009, its gains were largely offset by inconsistent pitching.