The Athletics have had a busy offseason, locking in key players for the future. Their best hitter, Brent Rooker, signed an extension that keeps him with the team through at least 2029. They also strengthened their pitching staff by adding right-hander Luis Severino and acquiring left-hander Jeffrey Springs. Now, they’ve secured another core piece.
On Monday, the A’s and outfielder Lawrence Butler finalized a seven-year, $65.5 million extension. Jeff Passan of ESPN first reported the deal, which includes a club option for 2032. That option could push the total value to $81.5 million, with escalators potentially raising it to $87.5 million. Butler will also receive a $3 million signing bonus, split into three payments.
We’re Law in
We have agreed to terms with outfielder Lawrence Butler on a seven-year contract through the 2031 season with a club option for 2032. pic.twitter.com/JQWvdCoBWX
— Athletics (@Athletics) March 10, 2025
His salary structure is as follows: $2.25 million in 2025, $3.25 million in 2026, $5 million in 2027, $8 million in 2028, $10 million in 2029, $14 million in 2030, and $16 million in 2031.
A’s Continue Busy Offseason with Lawrence Butler Extension
Butler, 24, started 2024 on Oakland’s Opening Day roster but struggled early. After hitting .179 in 41 games, he was demoted to Triple-A Las Vegas on May 14. However, after being recalled on June 18, he took off. Over his final 73 games, Butler slashed .302/.346/.597 with 20 home runs, 49 RBI, and 14 stolen bases. From June 30 onward, his 167 wRC+ ranked eighth in MLB. The only players ahead of him were Juan Soto (174), Shohei Ohtani (181), Rooker (181), Yordan Alvarez (187), Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (189), Bobby Witt Jr. (196), and Aaron Judge (225).
The A’s are making long-term commitments. Along with Butler and Rooker’s extensions, the team also secured manager Mark Kotsay with a three-year contract extension last month. His deal includes a club option for 2029, keeping him in charge through the team’s final season in Sacramento and at least their first in Las Vegas.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding their future, the A’s are building a foundation. Butler and Rooker are set to lead the offense, while Severino and Springs add depth to the rotation. The A’s offseason moves show a clear effort to field a competitive team.
Main Photo: © Eakin Howard-Imagn Images
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