Sources: A’s Extend Rooker Amidst Big Offseason Moves

Brent Rooker and Oakland Athletics Agree on Five-Year Contract Extension

In a move that has the baseball world buzzing, slugger Brent Rooker and the Oakland Athletics have reached an agreement on a five-year, $60 million contract extension. This exciting news was shared by ESPN’s Jeff Passan late Monday night, and it has certainly set the stage for an intriguing 2025 season.

The deal is not just a straightforward extension; it includes a sixth-year vesting option at $22 million, which can escalate, adding an extra layer of potential value for both Rooker and the Athletics. This extension will see Rooker earning $30 million over the first three seasons, which would have been his arbitration years. It’s a strategic move by the A’s, ensuring they lock in a key player during what could be a transformative period for the team.

Rooker, now 30, has been something of a late bloomer in the MLB. His performance with the A’s has been nothing short of impressive, and the team has shown their commitment to him by opting for an extension rather than exploring trade opportunities. This decision speaks volumes about Rooker’s value to the team and the role he is expected to play in their future success.

Interestingly, the Athletics have been quite active this offseason, spending over $100 million. This spending spree began with the signing of pitcher Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract, marking the largest deal in franchise history. Severino’s arrival was soon followed by the acquisitions of third baseman Gio Urshela and left-hander Jeffrey Springs. These moves have created a palpable sense of excitement and optimism among the coaches and players as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Adding to the intrigue, the Athletics are set to play in West Sacramento for the next few seasons while they await the completion of a new ballpark in Las Vegas. This temporary relocation adds another layer of complexity and anticipation to the team’s journey.

On the night the extension was announced, Rooker was spotted courtside at the Sacramento Kings‘ NBA game against the Miami Heat at Golden 1 Center. He was in good company, joined by A’s manager Mark Kotsay, JP Sears, JJ Bleday, and Lawrence Butler. This public appearance further underscores the camaraderie and unity within the team as they look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The news of Rooker’s agreement with the A’s was initially reported by The Athletic, adding another layer of credibility to this significant development. As the Athletics continue to make bold moves, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how these changes will impact the team’s performance in the coming seasons.

• Brent Rooker signs a five-year, $60 million extension with the Oakland Athletics.
• The deal includes a sixth-year vesting option at $22 million.
• Rooker will earn $30 million over the first three seasons.
• The Athletics have spent over $100 million this offseason.
• Key acquisitions include Luis Severino, Gio Urshela, and Jeffrey Springs.
• The team will play in West Sacramento until their new Las Vegas ballpark is ready.

With these strategic moves, the Athletics are clearly signaling their intent to compete at the highest level. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on this revamped team to see if they can translate their offseason investments into on-field success.