Taylor Smith Appointed President of Baseball Operations for Athletics

The Oakland Athletics have announced the appointment of Taylor Smith as their new president of baseball operations, filling the position left vacant by David Forst.

Smith, who previously served as an assistant general manager with the Boston Red Sox, was selected after a comprehensive search process. The Athletics had previously moved on from Forst in August, and other candidates included Sam Fuld of the Phillies and Jared Banner from the Cubs, both of whom ultimately declined the position. Smith was identified as the leading candidate for the role late last week, with additional finalists including Rob Cerfolio from the Cardinals.

Dan Feinstein, who served as the Athletics' assistant GM, temporarily filled the role after Forst's departure but was not considered for the permanent position.