The Oakland Athletics have officially secured slugger Brent Rooker with a lucrative five-year contract extension worth $60 million, according to reports from The Associated Press. The announcement, made on January 7, 2025, follows successful negotiations aimed at retaining one of baseball's rising stars. Rooker, who became the first Athletics player to win the Silver Slugger Award since Eric Chavez back in 2002, has shown exceptional talent and resilience, contributing significantly to his team during recent seasons.
Rooker's contract, which features potential escalators, includes a vesting option for the 2030 season, with the deal's total value possibly reaching $92 million. This contract marks the largest annual value of any contract extension ever for the Athletics, demonstrating the team's commitment to building around Rooker as they transition to new chapters, including plans for relocation to Las Vegas.
According to insiders familiar with the negotiations, the agreement was reached with Rooker's agents after discussions began shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 MLB season. A source noted, “He’s nurtured his game tremendously and is now central to our success.” A's manager Mark Kotsay echoed this sentiment, praising Rooker's impact and future potential, stating, "He’s pretty unbelievable. We don’t talk enough about the perseverance of this kid’s career. It’s pretty remarkable for him to put together two seasons the way he has." Rooker's impressive stats speak volumes about his prowess, as he finished the 2024 season with .293 batting average, 39 home runs, and 112 RBIs, marking him as one of the league’s exciting talents.
Extending Rooker is pivotal for the Athletics as they navigate the upcoming seasons. The team has placed significant emphasis on ensuring young, talented players like Rooker are at the forefront of their strategies moving forward. The 30-year-old outfielder and designated hitter made headlines not only for his performance at the plate but also for his leadership qualities within the clubhouse, bolstering the morale of his teammates.
The Athletics are presently shifting their focus as they prepare for their first season away from Oakland, which will feature games at Sutter Health Park over the next three seasons for their relocation efforts. Rooker's contract extension serves as a beacon of hope for fans who are eager to see the team's progression. With the Athletics also spending considerable sums on other players like right-hander Luis Severino, signed this offseason for a three-year deal worth $67 million, they appear determined to assemble a competitive roster. The combination of Rooker’s skills, the addition of veteran players, and the emergence of promising prospects like Lawrence Butler and Mason Miller sets the stage for the Athletics to become increasingly formidable.
During the 2024 season, Rooker amassed 307 total bases and led the team with metrics reflecting his all-star caliber, including 160 hits and 39 home runs. His efforts contributed to the Athletics' impressive improvement over the previous season's performance, as they increased their win total by 19 games. This increase signals considerable potential for continued success as the team strengthens its core and boosts its roster's depth.
Rooker's first two seasons with the Athletics have been marked by significant personal and professional growth. He seems to be relishing the opportunity to lead the young team forward alongside other controllable talents progressing through the ranks. Commenting on the offseason signings and changes, Rooker said, “We liked where we were at the end of last year, and I think we’re aBetter team now than we were then. Heading entering Spring Training, the expectations are high, the hopes are high, and we’re excited about where our team is headed.” His perspective adds to the sense of optimism among A’s fans and analysts, who view the organization’s decisions as bold moves signaling intent to contend actively.
Overall, the Athletics have shown they’re serious about building for the future as they prepare for their transition to Las Vegas. Extending Rooker ties him firmly to the team's plans, and as both management and players work collaboratively, the foundation for success continues to solidify. Whether through Rooker's continued development as a player or the Athletics' ambition to craft a competitive roster, the forthcoming seasons will surely be ones to watch for all baseball enthusiasts.