Many Athletics followers are nonetheless struggling to just accept the franchise’s transfer out of Oakland and proceed to lash out at possession. If one appears to be like past the heartbreak, although, they may see a glimmer of hope on the horizon. A 19-win enhance in 2024 sneakily positions the embattled ballclub for a probably fascinating 2025 MLB season. Brent Rooker is immensely excited for the A’s future.
The All-Star designated hitter, who blasted 39 residence runs and 112 RBIs whereas producing an outstanding .293/.365/.562/.927 slash line in 2024, signed a five-year, $60 million contract extension earlier within the week. He’s fiercely dedicated to serving to the Athletics proceed their gradual climb again up the American League standings.
Whereas some folks will query his choice to ink the deal he did, Rooker has waited a very long time to obtain any form of vindication. He’s grateful to realize it with the A’s.
“My skilled baseball journey has been a novel one,” the 30-year-old slugger posted on X. “Its been an extended highway than most and full of plenty of highs and lows, plenty of bouncing round and plenty of uncertainty. The one fixed that I’ve had all through all of that point is a gaggle of individuals round me that by no means stopped supporting or believing in me. I’m particularly grateful for these folks this week and I wish to reiterate how EXCITED I’m to have the chance to symbolize this workforce for the subsequent a number of years. Go Athletics!”
Brent Rooker and the Athletics are an incredible match
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Rooker, a 2017 first-round draft decide, toiled round with the Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres and Kansas Metropolis Royals organizations earlier than incomes a full-time function in 2023. He discovered big-league sanctuary on the worst A’s workforce in Oakland historical past (50-112). He then established himself as a standout offensive expertise, incomes a long-awaited Silver Slugger award within the ballclub’s closing yr within the metropolis.
Regardless of solely taking part in two full MLB seasons, Brent Rooker is taken into account one of many Athletics’ most distinguished leaders. He’s the present face of the operation, if you’ll. However the Germantown, Tennessee native shouldn’t be their solely notable expertise. The roster boasts a number of people who might additionally change into precious elements of the franchise.
Lawrence Butler hit 22 homers and stole 18 bases in solely 125 video games. JJ Bleday additionally provides some pop to the outfield. Shea Langeliers is quickly rising up the catcher ranks after posting 29 bombs and 80 RBIs. Luis Severino is the brand new ace of the pitching rotation and brings with him essential expertise and a strong 3.91 profession ERA. Jeffrey Springs deserves his due as effectively. Mason Miller is arguably essentially the most electrical reliever in baseball right this moment, recording a staggering 104 strikeouts in 65 innings.
This isn’t merely a gathering of common Joes. The Athletics ought to be aggressive. The highway to competence has been a grueling one, and it’s nonetheless removed from full, however Mark Kotsay’s workforce is trudging ahead. And Rooker is likely one of the males proudly main the best way.