A’s Rumors: Ellis, Embree

More A’s rumors and news, courtesy of Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle (here and here).

• GM Billy Beane is committed to the long-term plan, and is not interested in quick fixes.  He’d like to add a free agent bat, probably an older player on a short-term commitment (Jason Giambi could make sense).
• Second baseman Mark Ellis had shoulder surgery a few weeks ago.  The uncertainty hurts his free agency prospects, which might give the A’s a better chance to re-sign him.  Ellis is a Beane favorite, and the A’s hope to bring him back.
• The A’s will decide on Alan Embree’s $3MM option after the World Series.