Oakland Athletics Lock Up Brent Rooker with 5-Year, $60 Million Deal

The Oakland Athletics have signed designated hitter Brent Rooker to a 5-year, $60 million contract extension, with incentives potentially increasing earnings to $92 million.

The Oakland Athletics and designated hitter Brent Rooker have reached a long-term agreement, with the 30-year-old slugger signing a five-year, $60 million contract extension. As part of the deal, Rooker will receive a $10 million signing bonus, providing a significant upfront payment.

The contract extension also includes performance-based incentives that could increase Rooker's earnings to $92 million over the next six years. This provision allows Rooker to potentially capitalize on his impressive performance, which saw him set new career highs in various categories. Last season, Rooker delivered a standout campaign, boasting a .293 batting average, .365 on-base percentage, .562 slugging percentage, and a .927 OPS, while hitting 39 home runs and driving in 119 runs.

Brent Rooker's journey to becoming a key player for the Oakland Athletics has been marked by perseverance and determination. As he enters his sixth season in the majors, Rooker reflects on his early years, which saw him change teams four times between the Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres, and Kansas City Royals. However, since joining the Athletics in 2023, Rooker has finally found his footing, establishing himself as a formidable force in the league.

Rooker's impressive performance last season earned him recognition, as he finished 10th in the American League MVP voting. He also received his first Silver Slugger award, a testament to his exceptional skills as a hitter. Despite these accolades, some felt that Rooker was overlooked for his second consecutive All-Star nomination, as he was not selected for the American League roster. Nevertheless, Rooker's achievements serve as a reminder of his remarkable growth and dedication to his craft.

Athletics, OF/DH Brent Rooker reportedly agree to 5-year extension, per multiple reports including https://t.co/Z3s2EphcSH's @MartinJGallegos. pic.twitter.com/sWnKuXhSdl

— MLB (@MLB) January 7, 2025

Rooker's path to the majors began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Twins in the 38th round of the 2016 MLB Draft. However, instead of joining the Twins immediately, Rooker chose to attend Mississippi State University for another year. The decision proved beneficial, as Rooker re-entered the draft the following year and was selected 35th overall by the Twins in the first round. Now, as Rooker prepares to lead the Athletics in their new home in Sacramento, he is poised to build on his success and solidify his position as a leader in the league.