The Oakland Athletics have taken the baseball world by surprise by signing right-hander Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract. This move marks the largest signing in franchise history, made even more unexpected as the team gears up for a temporary three-year stay in West Sacramento before relocating to their new ballpark in Las Vegas.


Building on this momentum, the A's are now setting their sights on securing an extension for star player Brent Rooker. Manager Mark Kotsay expressed the team's optimism about finalizing a deal, noting that such a move would signify a new direction for the organization in terms of player commitment.


While signing younger or less-established players to extensions is a common strategy across all teams, it's especially significant for lower-spending organizations like the Athletics. Securing cost certainty during a player's arbitration years or extending control into free-agent years can be a major financial advantage, allowing these teams to retain talent without the hefty price tags associated with free agency.


Historically, the Athletics have been conservative with player extensions. The two-year, $33.5 million deal signed by Khris Davis in April 2019 stands out as the only extension in the past decade. In fact, since October 2007, the A's have signed just nine extensions, with only four players—Sean Doolittle, Trevor Cahill, Brett Anderson, and Kurt Suzuki—receiving deals longer than two years.


With the signing of Severino and the potential extension for Rooker, the Athletics appear to be signaling a shift in their approach to building and maintaining a competitive roster. These moves could lay the groundwork for a more stable and committed team as they transition to their new home in Las Vegas.

In a move that has taken many baseball fans by surprise, the Oakland Athletics have signed a three-year, $67 million contract with pitcher Luis Severino. This deal marks the largest financial commitment in the franchise's history, surpassing the $66 million contract held by Eric Chavez for the past two decades. The A's had hinted at their willingness to make significant investments in free agency or through trades, and this contract represents the first concrete step in that direction.

Severino's deal, with an annual value exceeding $22 million, showcases a new financial strategy for the Athletics. Traditionally known for their frugality, the A's are now demonstrating a readiness to compete financially with larger-market teams. This shift could indicate more substantial spending in the near future.

Supporting this notion, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports that the Athletics made a substantial offer to free agent southpaw Sean Manaea before finalizing the deal with Severino. Manaea, who began his MLB career with the Athletics after being acquired from the Kansas City Royals in the 2015 Ben Zobrist trade, remains a potential target. Although it is unclear if the Athletics will continue to pursue upper-tier free agents, the Severino signing and discussions of a $100 million payroll target suggest it is within the realm of possibility.

Even with Severino's contract, RosterResource projects the Athletics' payroll at a modest $58 million. This leaves ample room for additional high-value contracts, whether through free agency or trade acquisitions. The current flexibility in their budget could allow the Athletics to strategically strengthen their roster further.

The decision to invest heavily in Severino reflects the Athletics' commitment to competing at a higher level. Severino, known for his powerful arm and impressive strikeout rates, brings a formidable presence to the mound. His addition is expected to significantly bolster the A's pitching rotation, providing a cornerstone for future success.

The Athletics' willingness to break their financial mold marks a new chapter in the franchise's history. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this increased investment will impact the team's performance on the field. The potential for additional signings and trades could further enhance the Athletics' competitiveness in the coming seasons.

As the offseason progresses, the Athletics' actions will be scrutinized to gauge the extent of their new spending strategy. The Severino deal could be the first of several moves aimed at transforming the team into a more consistent contender.

​Stay tuned for updates as the Athletics navigate this transformative period. Their ability to balance financial investment with on-field performance will be crucial in shaping the future of the franchise.

In a landmark decision, the Las Vegas Stadium Authority approved the lease, non-relocation, and development documents on Thursday, paving the way for the Oakland Athletics to construct a $1.75 billion stadium on the Strip and bring Major League Baseball to this burgeoning sports market. This approval removes the last major obstacles for the project.


The lease and non-relocation agreements, each spanning 30 years, were celebrated as significant milestones. "It's a really significant day in Las Vegas," remarked Steve Hill, CEO and president of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. "Today's a real milestone. I think we should recognize that and celebrate that." His comments drew applause from the attendees.


Sandy Dean, a board member of the Athletics, echoed the excitement, stating, "It's really an exciting day for the A's. We're grateful to everybody that helped us be here today."


While the approval marks a major step forward, several details remain, such as finalizing a development agreement with Clark County. Groundbreaking is anticipated for the spring to ensure the stadium's completion by the 2028 season. Dean mentioned that discussions with the county are in the early stages but expressed optimism about the timeline.


The project costs have escalated by $250 million due to inflation and additional amenities for fans and players, including an under-seat cooling system and a split lower bowl for a closer view of the action. Dean acknowledged potential further cost increases due to interest rates but emphasized their commitment to creating a top-tier ballpark while managing expenses.


Nevada and Clark County have committed $380 million in public funds towards the 30,000-seat domed stadium, which is estimated to accommodate 33,000 spectators. Public funding will commence only after the Athletics have invested at least $100 million, with Dean confirming that $40 million has already been spent. Club owner John Fisher has increased his family's financial pledge to $1.1 billion, supplemented by a $300 million loan from U.S. Bank and Goldman Sachs. Fisher is also seeking investors to purchase equity in the team.


Hill assured the board of Fisher's financial capability to meet obligations, stating, "Any overages are the responsibility of the A's. This may not be the last time the costs rise."


Supporting documents included letters demonstrating the financing is secure, even without additional investors. These letters outlined loan commitments, Fisher's personal financial statements, and a U.S. Bank review affirming sufficient assets to fund the stadium's equity portion.


The Athletics will continue to play in a minor league ballpark in West Sacramento, California, for the next three seasons, following their recent departure from Oakland after 57 years.


​In a related development, ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Athletics have agreed to sign free-agent pitcher Luis Severino to a $67 million, three-year contract, the richest deal in the club's history, hours before the LVSA decision.

In a stunning move, the Oakland Athletics have agreed to a three-year, $67 million contract with free agent right-hander Luis Severino, as reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The deal includes a $10 million signing bonus and $57 million in salary over three years, with an opt-out clause after the second year, according to Yahoo's Russell Dorsey. Severino, represented by Klutch Sports, brings a significant boost to the A's pitching staff.

The news comes as a shock to many, given the A's nomadic status and their plans to play in West Sacramento's Sutter Health Park (home to the Giants’ Triple-A affiliate) next season. The A’s are in the midst of relocating to Las Vegas and have been aggressively pursuing free agents to elevate a payroll that had no guaranteed contracts for 2025 at the start of the offseason. Some free agents, including Walker Buehler, have dismissed the idea of playing in a minor league facility, yet the A’s have a reported target payroll of $100 million, suggesting they could be major players in free agency.

​The general consensus has been that the A’s would need to offer above-market deals to attract top-tier free agents this winter. The terms of Severino’s contract reflect this approach, with a higher guarantee than expected and an opt-out clause. Because Severino rejected a qualifying offer from the Mets, his signing will cost the A’s their third-highest draft pick next year, while netting the Mets a compensatory pick between the fourth and fifth rounds due to their luxury tax status.

The projected cost for the Oakland Athletics' new Las Vegas ballpark has increased by $250 million, bringing the total to $1.75 billion. Despite the rise in expenses, team owner John Fisher is expected to cover his portion of the funding.

According to a letter from U.S. Bank senior vice president Stephen Vogel to the Las Vegas stadium authority, Fisher and his family have ample financial resources to manage the equity portion of the capital structure for the new stadium. Fisher, whose net worth is estimated at $3.2 billion, remains committed to the project.

"We conclude that the Fisher family and their related entities have financial assets [excluding their interest in the Athletics Major League Baseball franchise] more than sufficient to fund the equity portion of the proposed capital structure for the Athletics' Las Vegas stadium," Vogel wrote.

The funding plan includes loans from U.S. Bank and Goldman Sachs amounting to $300 million, with an additional $380 million coming from the public sector, as reported by Front Office Sports.

While Fisher is actively seeking minority equity investors, he has not yet disclosed how the remaining project costs will be financed. However, he has assured that he and his family will contribute up to $1.1 billion.

Initially estimated at $1.5 billion, the ballpark's costs have increased due to enhancements in fan and player amenities, including upgraded suite spaces.

Construction of the new stadium is scheduled to begin next spring, with the Athletics aiming for an Opening Day 2028 debut. In the interim, the team will play its home games at Sutter Health Park, a minor league stadium in Sacramento, California, with a seating capacity of approximately 14,000 fans.

​The Athletics had called Oakland home since 1968, but the decision to relocate to Las Vegas came after failed negotiations with the city on terms for building a new stadium in the Bay Area. This move marks a significant shift for the franchise as it embarks on a new chapter in Las Vegas.

The Las Vegas Stadium Authority Board is set to convene on Thursday to discuss crucial elements of the Oakland Athletics' plans to build a new ballpark in Las Vegas for the 2028 season. According to Mick Akers of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the agenda will include several significant ballpark-related matters, particularly focusing on the financing of the project.

Four letters will be presented, outlining the financial commitments towards the construction of the new stadium. These letters are from the Athletics themselves, owner John Fisher regarding his family's investment, U.S. Bank concerning the Fisher family's finances and ability to meet their commitments, and a joint letter from U.S. Bank and Goldman Sachs regarding their $300 million loan to help fund the stadium's construction.

The most notable update is the project's rising cost, which has increased from $1.5 billion to $1.75 billion. This increase, while anticipated, is attributed to a combination of adding new features to the ballpark and general rises in construction costs. As A's executive Sandy Dean explained, the additional funds will go towards upgrades in the suites and general admissions areas, an advanced audio and visual system for hosting concerts, and a unique seat-cooling system.

The financing breakdown for the project includes up to $380 million covered by Clark County and the state of Nevada, $300 million from the U.S. Bank/Goldman Sachs loan, and the remaining costs, including the new $250 million, will be financed by the Fisher family and the Athletics. The Fisher family's stake could be reduced if minority owners are found, with new partners potentially covering part of the construction costs in exchange for a small share in the franchise. The Athletics have committed to covering any further increases in the project’s budget.

Three critical agreements will be decided at Thursday’s meeting. These include not only the ballpark’s construction but also elements such as the initial 30-year lease and contingencies if the Athletics attempt to relocate before the lease's conclusion. Akers describes this meeting as "the most important to date" in advancing the Athletics' project.

If the plans proceed smoothly, construction is set to begin this spring, targeting an opening date for the 2028 season. During the interim, the Athletics will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento for the 2025-27 seasons.

​This pivotal meeting represents a significant step forward in the Athletics' quest to establish their new home in Las Vegas, bringing the project one step closer to fruition.

As the Oakland Athletics prepare to transition to playing their home games at a minor-league park in Sacramento for the 2025 season, right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler has made it clear he won't be joining them. During a speaking appearance at the USC SBA Sports Business Summit on Thursday night, Athletics manager Mark Kotsay confirmed that the club had reached out to Buehler, but the free-agent pitcher expressed no interest in playing in Sacramento, according to USC student journalist Kasey Kazliner.

Buehler, 30, is coming off a challenging season in which he posted a 5.38 ERA (72 ERA+) and a 2.29 strikeout-to-walk ratio. Despite his struggles during the regular season, Buehler redeemed himself in the postseason, throwing the title-clinching pitch in Game 5 of the World Series. His performance has earned him the 26th spot on CBS Sports' list of the top free agents available this winter.

Buehler's decline to join the Athletics isn't surprising. The pitcher, once likened to Luis Severino for his potential and injury-plagued career, still possesses a promising arsenal. Pitch-grading models suggest that Buehler has three or four above-average pitches, making him an attractive option for teams willing to offer a one-year deal worth around $15 million.

The Athletics' situation, on the other hand, presents a less appealing prospect for top-tier players. The team announced plans to raise payroll this winter, but playing home games at a minor-league stadium is a significant deterrent. As noted previously, their potential signings will likely be limited to players seeking an opportunity at the big-league level or those who are willing to accept a one-year deal despite the less-than-ideal circumstances.

The Athletics will play their home games at Sutter Health Park, home of the Triple-A River Cats, through the 2027 season. While enhancements are being made to the ballpark, it's unlikely to compare favorably to stadiums designed for MLB teams.

With Buehler's decision to explore other options, the Athletics will need to focus on attracting players who are motivated by the chance to play and develop at the major-league level, even if it means competing in a minor-league venue for the foreseeable future. The team’s journey ahead will undoubtedly be challenging, but it’s a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in professional sports.

​Stay tuned for more updates on the Athletics' offseason moves and the future of their roster as they navigate this transitional period.

​For a pitcher selected 19th overall in the 2021 MLB Draft, Gunnar Hoglund's professional career has been anything but straightforward. Drafted by the Toronto Blue Jays just two months after undergoing Tommy John surgery, Hoglund's promising junior season at Ole Miss was cut short, setting the stage for a challenging entry into Major League Baseball.

Before Hoglund could even showcase his talent, he was traded to the Oakland Athletics in March 2022 as the centerpiece in the Matt Chapman deal. Adjusting to a new organization while still recovering from surgery was no small feat, and his professional debut was further delayed. When he finally took the mound in July 2022, his return was brief – just three games and eight innings – before a biceps strain sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

In 2023, Hoglund's health improved, but his performance lagged, posting a 6.05 ERA in 61 innings. However, 2024 brought a breakthrough. Fully healthy and with a more substantial workload, Hoglund excelled, starting the year at Double-A Midland with a 2.84 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 97 strikeouts, and 27 walks in 104 2/3 innings. His impressive performance earned him a promotion to Triple-A Las Vegas for the final five starts of the season.

Hoglund's resurgence prompted the Athletics to secure his future by adding him to the 40-man roster, protecting him from the upcoming Rule 5 Draft on December 11. Joining him are outfielder Denzel Clarke and right-hander Ryan Cusick.

Despite not fully regaining his pre-surgery velocity – his fastball averaged around 92 mph in 2024, compared to 96-97 mph at Ole Miss – Hoglund's four-pitch mix and consistent strike-throwing vaulted him back up the A's Top 30 Prospects list, finishing the season at No. 12.

​Hoglund's journey is a testament to resilience and determination. From the setbacks of major surgery and injury to his climb back as a key prospect, his story is one of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of success in Major League Baseball. The Athletics and their fans look forward to his continued development and contributions in the seasons to come.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed various topics at the league headquarters on Wednesday, including the Oakland Athletics' proposed move to Las Vegas.

After playing their final game at the Coliseum in the East Bay this past September, the A's are set to play the next three seasons in Sacramento while their new ballpark is constructed on the site of the Tropicana Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Although construction has yet to begin, the stadium is projected to be ready for Opening Day in 2028. However, concerns remain about securing the $1.5 billion needed to start the project.

Despite these uncertainties, Manfred reaffirmed that the A's planned relocation to Las Vegas is proceeding as scheduled. "I understand there seems to be some sense of doubt that persists out there, but [owner] John Fisher is completely committed to the process," Manfred stated, as reported by The Athletic. "The building’s been demolished. The site’s available. They are on track for a 2028 opening. They’ve gone through the process of demonstrating that whether or not he takes local [investment] partners, he has the capacity to build the stadium. We’re full speed ahead."

In October, A's executive Sandy Dean announced that Fisher plans to invest $1 billion of his own money into the stadium's construction, with work expected to begin next spring. The A's are set to present proof of their financing at an authority meeting on December 5, aiming to demonstrate they have the necessary funds to move forward.

​As the A's transition to Las Vegas, all eyes will be on the upcoming developments and the progress of their new ballpark, which promises to usher in a new era for the team.

The Oakland Athletics have solidified their roster for the 2025 season by agreeing to a one-year contract with first baseman and outfielder Seth Brown, thus avoiding arbitration. While the financial terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed, this move signifies a crucial step in maintaining team depth and versatility.

Brown, 32, seemed to be on the verge of departure from the A's plans midseason when he was placed on waivers unclaimed. Rather than forfeiting the remainder of his $2.6 million salary, Brown accepted an outright assignment to Triple-A. There, he reignited his career with an impressive performance, earning a swift return to the majors.

At the time of his removal from the 40-man roster, Brown’s performance was underwhelming, with a .189/.251/.306 slash line over 195 plate appearances. However, his resurgence in Triple-A was nothing short of spectacular, posting a .403/.416/.736 slash and seven home runs in just 77 plate appearances. This turnaround led to his reinstatement on the big league roster within a month, where he improved to a .271/.312/.448 line over 205 plate appearances, matching his earlier struggles almost exactly.

Brown’s late-season performance has evidently secured his place in the team’s plans for another year. The left-handed slugger is expected to split his playing time between first base and the outfield corners, while Brent Rooker is likely to take most of the designated hitter appearances. MLBTR contributor Matt Swartz had projected a $3.8 million salary for Brown in free agency. However, pre-tender deals like Brown's often come with salaries below such projections, as teams leverage the non-tender deadline to secure more favorable terms.

Despite back-to-back challenging seasons at the plate, Brown’s potential remains evident. He hit 45 home runs over 261 games with the A’s from 2021-2022 and has maintained a .225/.289/.426 batting line (102 wRC+) over 1,640 plate appearances since the 2021 season. This new contract offers Brown a chance to regain his form and deliver the powerful performances that made him a key player in the past.

​As the Athletics look forward to the 2025 season, retaining Seth Brown adds a layer of experience and potential to their lineup, highlighting their strategic approach to building a competitive team.

The Oakland Athletics have taken a chance on left-handed pitcher Matt Krook, signing him to a minor league deal. This move offers Krook a shot at redemption after a turbulent few years in professional baseball.

Krook's career path has been marked by both promise and setbacks. Drafted by the Marlins out of high school in 2013, a shoulder injury during his physical derailed the initial signing. He later battled elbow issues that required Tommy John surgery during his freshman year at the University of Oregon.

Despite these early hurdles, Krook persevered. The San Francisco Giants drafted him in 2016, and he eventually found himself traded to the Tampa Bay Rays organization as part of a package for Evan Longoria. However, his journey continued with the Yankees selecting him in the Rule 5 Draft and later adding him to their 40-man roster.

2023 saw Krook reach the major leagues with the Yankees. However, control issues plagued him, leading to a short, unremarkable stint. Despite solid minor league numbers that year, he was designated for assignment and eventually claimed by the Baltimore Orioles.

His time in Baltimore wasn't much smoother. Though he performed well in Triple-A, his lone major league appearance resulted in a three-run home run. The Orioles ultimately designated him for assignment again.

Now, with the Athletics, Krook gets a fresh start. Oakland's bullpen lacks depth and top-tier talent, creating an opportunity for him to contribute. A successful spring training could be his ticket to a roster spot and a chance to establish himself in the big leagues.

​Krook's story highlights the perseverance required for success in baseball. While control remains his biggest obstacle, his minor league track record demonstrates potential. Can he overcome his struggles and find his footing with the A's? Only time will tell, but this minor league deal represents a crucial chance for the well-traveled lefty.

A New Opportunity
Former Oakland Athletics relief pitcher Jack O'Loughlin is embarking on a new journey after signing a minor league deal with the Colorado Rockies. This move marks a significant step in O'Loughlin's career, as he aims to make a strong impression at the Rockies' Spring Training camp.

​O'Loughlin's Journey
Jack O'Loughlin, a promising left-handed pitcher from Adelaide, Australia, made his Major League Baseball (MLB) debut with the Athletics in 2024. Despite a challenging rookie season, where he struggled to find consistency, O'Loughlin showcased glimpses of his potential, leaving a lasting impression on those who saw him pitch.
During the 2024 season, O'Loughlin appeared in 22 games for the Athletics, posting a 5.02 ERA with 34 strikeouts over 28.2 innings. While these numbers may not jump off the page, his powerful fastball and sharp breaking ball have made him a player to watch. Scouts have noted his impressive velocity and movement, suggesting that with some refinement, he could become a reliable option out of the bullpen.

The Rockies' Perspective
For the Rockies, signing O'Loughlin is a low-risk, high-reward move. The team is looking to bolster its pitching depth, and O'Loughlin's potential makes him an intriguing addition. Rockies' General Manager expressed optimism about the signing, highlighting O'Loughlin's raw talent and the opportunity for him to develop further within their organization.
"Jack has shown that he has the tools to be successful at this level," the GM said. "We believe that with the right coaching and support, he can take the next step in his career and become a valuable contributor to our team."

Preparing for Spring Training
As O'Loughlin heads into Spring Training with the Rockies, he will be focused on refining his mechanics and improving his consistency. The coaching staff will work closely with him to harness his strengths and address any weaknesses. This period will be crucial for O'Loughlin as he aims to secure a spot on the Rockies' roster for the 2025 season.

Looking Ahead
​Jack O'Loughlin's journey is a testament to the resilience and determination required to succeed in professional sports. His move to the Colorado Rockies represents a fresh start and a chance to prove himself at the highest level. Fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching to see how he performs in the upcoming season.
With his talent and the support of the Rockies' organization, O'Loughlin has the opportunity to carve out a successful career in the MLB. As he takes this next step, there's a sense of excitement and anticipation about what the future holds for the young left-hander.

Chris Caray has been appointed as a play-by-play announcer for Athletics games on NBC Sports California, marking the fourth generation of his family to join the ranks of MLB broadcasters.

Chip Caray, Chris's father, serves as the TV play-by-play voice for the Cardinals. Chris's grandfather, Skip, held the same role for the Braves for an impressive 32-year tenure. Adding to the family legacy, Harry Caray, Chris's great-grandfather, was honored with the Hall of Fame's Ford C. Frick Award for his outstanding contributions to baseball broadcasting.
​
Reflecting on his new role, Chris Caray expressed his excitement, stating, "Ever since I was a 12-year-old kid, I dreamed of becoming a major league broadcaster. Now, I'm thrilled that that dream has come true."

The "Oakland" A's made a couple late Friday moves -

The squad claimed Michael Kelly from the Guardians and signed Daz Cameron to a minor league deal.

Kelly just finished his 11th year of pro ball, playing 14 games with Cleveland last season. 
Cameron just finished his 3rd year of pro ball, playing 21 games with Detroit last season.