In a bold move that echoes the team's ambition amidst organizational transitions, the Oakland Athletics have inked a three-year contract with right-handed pitcher Luis Severino. This deal, valued at a handsome $67 million, marks the largest guaranteed financial commitment in the franchise's history. It signifies a new chapter for both the team and the player as the A's prepare for their upcoming relocation to Sacramento in 2025.
A Momentous Deal for A Revitalized Pitcher
Luis Severino enters the Athletics' roster having freshly revived his career with the New York Mets. During his tenure with the Mets, Severino demonstrated significant prowess, participating in 31 games and covering a sturdy 182 innings. His season was marked by a respectable 3.91 ERA and an FIP of 4.21, complemented by an impressive tally of 161 strikeouts. These figures highlight his resilience and capability to function as a pivotal player in a pitching rotation.
Severino's performance with the Mets stands in contrast to his earlier struggles in the 2023 season with the New York Yankees, where his numbers were less favorable, sporting a 6.65 ERA and a 6.14 FIP over 18 starts and some relief appearances. However, 2024 represented a turning point as Severino adapted his playing style, notably increasing his sinker usage and relying heavily on a sweeper as his preferred secondary pitch.
Enhancing the A’s Dynamics
Severino brings a repertoire of skills that the Athletics are keen to harness. Ranking in the 79th percentile for average fastball velocity and the 72nd percentile in groundball rate in 2024, he provides a sturdy anchor for Oakland’s pitching staff. His reformed arsenal demonstrates his adaptability and potential to contribute significantly to the Athletics' efforts to enhance their competitiveness.
Not just confined to raw numbers, Severino's leadership and experience are also assets. As a two-time All-Star with an ERA+ of 110 and a career WAR of 13.5 over nine major league seasons, he carries the potential to mentor younger players and influence the team's culture positively as they transition to a new era in Sacramento.
A Strategic Leap for the Athletics
With this landmark contract, the Athletics are clearly signaling their intention to rebuild and fortify their roster as they move to a new city. The investment in a player of Severino’s caliber reflects a strategy to blend veteran expertise with emerging talent, aiming to create a balanced and competitive unit in the seasons leading up to the relocation.
The contract also includes an opt-out clause following the 2026 season, giving Severino flexibility while extending his commitment to the team in the near future. Such clauses are becoming increasingly common in free-agent deals, offering both the player and the team a chance to reassess their partnership as circumstances evolve.
Preparing for the Sacramento Transition
The Athletics’ strategic maneuvers in signing Severino and preparing for the imminent move to Sacramento are indicative of the organization's long-term vision. By investing in stellar talent and seeking to foster a competitive edge, the Athletics are not only looking to spur fan interest in Sacramento but also aim to establish themselves as a formidable force in Major League Baseball.
As the 2025 season approaches, the Athletics' front office will likely continue to do everything in their power to ensure the team arrives in their new city poised for success. With Luis Severino leading the charge on the mound, the Athletics are setting the stage for what could be an exciting new chapter in the team’s storied history.