The Oakland Athletics are undergoing a significant transition, marked by their relocation plans and a recent major contract extension for one of their star players. Despite facing struggles on the field, the franchise is looking toward the future with renewed optimism.
A’s Transition and Future Plans
The Oakland Athletics find themselves at a crucial juncture. Midway through the 2023 season, the team was on track to record one of the worst finishes in Major League Baseball history, ultimately concluding the season with a disappointing 50-102 record. In the following year, their performance showed only slight improvement, finishing 23 games under .500. Following the 2024 season, the franchise shifted from Oakland to West Sacramento, where they will remain until their anticipated move to Las Vegas in 2028.
Record Contract for Tyler Soderstrom
Despite the team’s relocation and recent struggles, the A’s managed to secure a long-term commitment from one of their standout players. Left fielder Tyler Soderstrom has signed a seven-year, $86 million contract extension, which includes an option for an eighth year and potential performance incentives that could raise the total value to $131 million. This deal marks the largest in the franchise’s history.
At just 24 years old, Soderstrom has only completed one full major league season, yet he has made a notable impact. During the 2025 season, he achieved a batting line of .276/.346/.474, hitting 25 home runs and driving in 93 runs. Transitioning from catcher and first base to left field, he has demonstrated above-average defensive skills alongside his offensive contributions.
While the overall value of Soderstrom’s contract is significant, the annual average is comparatively manageable at approximately $12.3 million per season. If he reaches the maximum potential of his contract, the average annual value would be around $16.4 million over eight years—an investment that positions him as a central figure in the team’s future plans.
For perspective, the highest average annual value contract in MLB is held by Juan Soto of the New York Mets at $51 million. In contrast, the Los Angeles Angels are seeking to offload third baseman Anthony Rendon’s contract, which carries an average annual value of $35 million.
The Athletics last appeared in the playoffs in 2020, and their recent record of 76-86 last season was an encouraging sign, being their best result since 2021. The franchise seems committed to retaining its top talent, as evidenced by last offseason’s record-setting contract of $67 million for right-handed pitcher Luis Severino.
Although the A’s stay in Sacramento may be brief, there is potential for postseason success before their long-awaited transition to Las Vegas.
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