Oakland Athletics Make a Bold Move with Luis Severino Signing
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Oakland Athletics are making waves as they prepare for a new chapter in their franchise history. General manager David Forst made it clear that the team wanted to make a statement as they transition to their new home, and they’ve done just that by signing veteran right-hander Luis Severino.
Severino, 30, was officially introduced as the newest member of the Athletics on Friday after inking a $67 million, three-year contract. This deal is not only a significant investment for the team but also a historic one, as it marks the largest contract ever handed out by the low-budget A’s, surpassing the $66 million deal given to third baseman Eric Chavez back in 2005.
For Severino, this is a fresh start after a solid 2024 season with the New York Mets, where he posted an 11-7 record with a 3.91 ERA over 182 innings. Those numbers were his best since his All-Star days with the New York Yankees in 2018. Now, he’s ready to bring his experience and leadership to a team that’s looking to turn the page after a tough stretch.
“I am going to give my 100%. I am going to be the best pitcher, person, and teammate to help everybody to be better,” Severino said during his introductory press conference, donning an Athletics jersey for the first time.
A Historic Deal for the Athletics
The Athletics, who finished the 2024 season with a 69-93 record—marking their third consecutive losing season—are in the midst of a major transition. After 57 seasons in Oakland, the team is relocating to West Sacramento, California, where they’ll play for the next three years while awaiting the completion of a new stadium in Las Vegas.
Forst emphasized the importance of making a splash as the team enters this new era. “We wanted to make something of a statement coming into a new city and coming into a new ballpark,” Forst said. “But more than that, to improve on what we have. Signing someone with Luis’s experience to be a leader was important to us.”
Severino’s deal includes an opt-out clause after the 2026 season, giving him the flexibility to test free agency again if he chooses. For the Athletics, this signing represents a commitment to building a competitive team despite their historically tight budget.
Severino’s Career in Numbers
Over his career, Severino has compiled a 65-44 record with a 3.81 ERA in 156 starts and 16 relief appearances. His resume includes two All-Star selections and a reputation as a fierce competitor on the mound. After turning down a $21.05 million qualifying offer from the Mets, Severino was one of the most sought-after arms on the market this offseason.
Here’s a quick breakdown of Severino’s career highlights:
- Two-time All-Star (2017, 2018)
- Career record: 65-44
- Career ERA: 3.81
- Best season: 19-8 with a 3.39 ERA in 2018
By signing Severino, the Athletics will forfeit their third-highest selection in next July’s amateur draft, while the Mets will receive an extra pick after the fourth round as compensation.
Building Chemistry in a New Environment
Severino wasted no time getting acclimated to his new surroundings. Before the press conference, he toured Sutter Health Park, the Triple-A facility that’s being upgraded to host major league games. He also took the opportunity to learn more about the Sacramento area, researching the climate and community with the help of his sports agency.
For Severino, the decision to join the Athletics wasn’t just about the money or the opportunity to pitch in a new city. It was about the culture and the sense of family that the organization is striving to build. “When we talk about family, you talk about my teammates because you’re going to be in the same room with the same guys for six months,” Severino said. “You need to have that chemistry.”
As the Athletics prepare for their temporary stay in West Sacramento and their eventual move to Las Vegas, Severino’s presence could be a game-changer. His experience, leadership, and competitive spirit make him the perfect candidate to help guide this team through a pivotal period in its history.
For a franchise that’s often been defined by its financial limitations, this signing sends a clear message: the Athletics are ready to compete, and they’re not afraid to make bold moves to get there.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
