by Sports Xchange

--INF Adam Kennedy filed for free agency on the first day that players were allowed to do so, but his agent, Paul Cohen, told the San Francisco Chronicle that would be no indication of a change of heart -- Kennedy still would like to return to Oakland. Kennedy played third much of the year, and the A's do not know if Eric Chavez will be able to handle the position, especially on an everyday basis, after two back surgeries.

--RHP Justin Duchscherer filed for free agency on the first day players were eligible to do so. Duchscherer told MLB.com that he is "feeling better" after treatment for clinical depression. The A's have had some conversations with Duchscherer's agent, Damon Lapa, and might have some interest in having one veteran starter on a very young staff.

--RHP Brett Tomko filed for free agency on the first day of eligibility, though the A's have not ruled out talking to Tomko about a deal after he fully recovers from the nerve problem in his right arm that ended his season in September. Tomko pitched well enough with Oakland (4-1, 2.95 ERA) in a brief stint that he might get some better offers.

--INF Bobby Crosby was one of four Oakland players who filed for free agency on the first day of eligibility. Crosby is unlikely to return to the club after losing his starting shortstop job last season, but his new ability to play first, second and third could help him find work elsewhere. Cliff Pennington has the inside track on the A's starting shortstop job in the spring.

--OF Grant Desme had hit 10 home runs through 18 games in the Arizona Fall League, putting himself firmly on Oakland's radar. He also had a .373 average and 23 RBIs. The 23-year-old from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo might have done enough to earn an invite to major league camp.

BY THE NUMBERS: .231 -- INF Bobby Crosby's batting average over the past four seasons. His on-base percentage was .292, and his slugging percentage .346.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "If there's a positive that's come out of this for Bobby, it's that he's showed the ability to play multiple positions, which at some point later in his career could help him. And under less-than-ideal circumstances this year, he handled himself well." -- GM Billy Beane, in the San Francisco Chronicle, speaking about Bobby Crosby's increased versatility after losing his shortstop job.