A Historic Agreement in MLB
Two-time MLB All-Star pitcher Luis Severino has officially secured a monumental three-year contract with the Oakland Athletics, as reported by multiple sources. This impressive deal is valued at $67 million, making it the most substantial contract in the franchise’s history, which is known for its budget-conscious approach.
A New Era for the A’s
The contract surpasses the previous record held by third baseman Eric Chavez, who signed a $66 million deal for the 2005-2010 seasons. This significant investment in Severino signals a new direction for the Athletics as they aim to bolster their pitching staff and enhance their competitiveness in the league.
Severino’s Recent Performance
In the 2024 season, Severino had a standout year with the New York Mets, starting 31 games and achieving a 3.91 ERA. He also struck out 161 batters, marking his first full MLB season since 2018. Despite facing numerous injuries over the past five years, Severino demonstrated resilience and skill, proving he can still deliver top-notch performances.
Career Highlights and Transition
Luis Severino made his Major League debut with the New York Yankees in 2015 and quickly made a name for himself. In 2017, he notched 230 strikeouts and earned a spot on the All-Star team during his first complete season in the starting rotation. As he approaches his 31st birthday on February 20, Severino finds himself a free agent for the second consecutive offseason after finishing his tenure with the Mets, where he recorded an 11-7 record.
A Strategic Move for the Future
After leaving the Yankees, Severino signed a one-year contract with the Mets worth $13 million, with the potential to earn an additional $2 million through performance bonuses. Over his career, he has accumulated a record of 65 wins and 44 losses with a 3.81 ERA across 156 starts and 16 relief appearances.
Implications of the Deal
Severino declined a qualifying offer of $21.05 million from the Mets. As a result, the Mets will receive an extra draft pick after the fourth round in next July’s amateur draft, while the Athletics will forfeit their third-highest selection.
With this historic deal, Luis Severino is set to make a significant impact in Oakland, and fans are eager to see how this new partnership will unfold in the coming seasons.