Sep 28, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Oakland Athletics designated hitter Brent Rooker (25) hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images

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Brent Rooker’s historic extension leads A’s surprising spending spree

Brent Rooker leads A's spending spree with historic $60M extension.

The Oakland Athletics, known for their thrift, have shocked baseball fans by making significant moves this offseason. Their biggest headline? A five-year, $60 million extension for Brent Rooker, with potential to grow to $92 million over six years if incentives are met.

Brent Rooker gets a bag from the A's pic.twitter.com/Uv09wzgzTl
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) January 7, 2025

“Designated hitter/outfielder Brent Rooker in agreement with A’s on five-year, $60M extension. Vesting option can take the deal to six years, $90M,” tweeted Ken Rosenthal. The deal, which includes a $10 million signing bonus, is now the largest in team history based on average annual value.

MLBPA payroll pressure may have influenced A’s spending decisions

The A’s newfound spending spree may not be entirely voluntary. According to reports, the MLBPA raised concerns about whether Oakland’s payroll met the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) requirements for revenue-sharing teams. These rules require payrolls to hit 150% of the $70 million revenue-sharing payout. The team’s estimated payroll for 2025 currently sits at $70 million before arbitration raises, prompting moves like Rooker’s extension and a $67 million deal for Luis Severino.

Brent Rooker’s rise from journeyman to centerpiece for the A’s future

Rooker’s story is one of perseverance. Drafted 35th overall by the Minnesota Twins in 2017, he bounced between teams, including the Padres and Royals, before finding his footing in Oakland in 2023. His breakout year earned him an All-Star nod and saw him post a 127 OPS+. In 2024, he elevated his game further, hitting .293/.365/.562 with 39 home runs and 112 RBIs. His contributions helped Oakland improve from a dismal 50-win season in 2023 to 69 wins in 2024.

Slugger Brent Rooker and the Athletics are in agreement on a five-year, $60 million contract, sources tell ESPN. The deal includes a sixth-year vesting option at $22 million that can escalate. Another big-money deal for A’s as they spend. First on the news was @Ken_Rosenthal.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 7, 2025

Athletics preparing for a new chapter with big-money moves

The Athletics are in the midst of a major transition, leaving Oakland for Sacramento in 2025 before relocating to a proposed new stadium in Las Vegas by 2028. This shift coincides with the team’s uncharacteristic spending spree. Alongside Rooker’s extension, the A’s signed right-hander Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract and traded for left-handed pitcher Jeffrey Springs. They also added former Yankee Gio Urshela on a one-year deal worth $2.15 million.

Can Oakland’s roster overhaul change their fortunes?

Despite their spending, the Athletics face an uphill battle in the AL West. They finished fourth in the division in 2024 with a 69-93 record, far behind the Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, and Seattle Mariners. While Rooker’s extension provides stability and optimism, the A’s will need breakout performances from players like Lawrence Butler, Mason Miller, and Jacob Wilson to compete.

The Athletics make another move reportedly agreeing to a five-year contract extension with slugger Brent Rooker!#MLBNHotStove speaks on the impact of Rooker in the A's lineup and much more. pic.twitter.com/2SARfh3Mfq
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 7, 2025

Rooker’s extension cements his role in Athletics’ history

With this deal, Rooker becomes the centerpiece of the A’s rebuild. His five-year contract not only provides the team a consistent offensive presence but also makes history as the largest contract extension in franchise history. Whether the A’s newfound willingness to spend can translate into success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—Oakland is making moves to ensure a competitive roster for their future in Las Vegas.

Image: Imagn

Brent Rooker

Oakland Athletics

Natasha Bose

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