The Athletics sent Gio Gonzalez to the Nationals for four prospects last winter and both teams have enjoyed early returns on the trade.

Oakland made the moves in what was perceived as a rebuilding move, but two of the prospects, Tommy Milone and Derek Norris, have contributed to their surge in the American League playoff race.

Meanwhile, Gonzalez has been mentioned in conversations about the National League Cy Young award.

"They've stepped right in and contributed," Cliff Pennington said of the players Oakland acquired. "That's what we needed. We wanted big league-ready guys, and though a lot of people didn't see them as that, that's what we got. You can't really ask for much more from them. We haven't missed a beat with the guys that have stepped in."