Athletics Pay Big for Former Minnesota Twins First Round Pick
The Oakland Athletics were under pressure to open their wallets this offseason. With threats of a grievance from the Major League Baseball Players Association looming if they failed to do so, the A’s have responded accordingly. In the early hours of Tuesday morning, they made a bold statement by extending the contract of former Minnesota Twin, Brent Rooker, clearly showing they understand the urgency of their situation.
Minnesota Twins first round pick Brent Rooker has a long term home
Last season may have been Brent Rooker’s best in the majors. The former Minnesota Twins first round pick has bounced around after being traded, but the Athletics are now set to be his home for the future.
Designated hitter/outfielder Brent Rooker in agreement with A’s on five-year, $60M extension, source tells @TheAthletic. Vesting option can take the deal to six years, $90M.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 7, 2025
Prior to his extension, Rooker had three years of team control left and was not set to become a free agent until 2028. That makes the deal seem a bit light, even if he is a positionless 30-year old.
Last season Rooker won his first Silver Slugger and finished 10th in American League MVP voting. He slashed .293/.365/.562 with 26 doubles and 39 home runs. Over the past two seasons, Rooker has launched 69 dingers.
Brent Rooker ties a career high with home run No. 30! pic.twitter.com/wOMJnnGAeu
— MLB (@MLB) August 24, 2024
Brent Rooker after leaving the Twins
Minnesota traded Rooker to the San Diego Padres just days prior to the 2022 regular season. The return was Emilio Pagan and Chris Paddack. The Twins sought an opportunity to add a controllable starting pitcher with upside, but Paddack hasn’t exactly worked out, and now he’s likely to be dealt for salary relief.
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It took Rooker time to find his footing. He played in just two games for the Padres before seeing 14 games of big league action with the Kansas City Royals that year. The Mississippi State product surfaced with Oakland in 2023 and became an All-Star for the first time.
109.3 MPH off the bat for Brent Rooker's 39th home run of the season 🔥 pic.twitter.com/48XzUz9gcb
— MLB (@MLB) September 29, 2024
This past season was entirely different for Rooker. Not only did he hit for average, but he maintained the same level of power that has always been his calling card. With the Athletics moving to Sacramento on their way to Las Vegas, Rooker can become a mainstay for the fanbase.
Related: Minnesota Twins Hire Former Player to Front Office Role
Of course it’s unfortunate that it didn’t work out with the Twins. Rooker didn’t work in two stops after that either. He has certainly settled in at this point, and the payday is more than deserved.
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