Athletics Make Franchise History with Luis Severino Signing
In a bold move reflective of their future ambitions, the Oakland Athletics have inked right-handed pitcher Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract. This landmark deal marks the largest guaranteed financial commitment in the history of the franchise, signaling a clear shift in strategy as the team prepares for a new chapter in Sacramento come 2025.
Severino's Meteoric Rise
Severino's journey to Oakland is nothing short of a comeback narrative. Following a challenging stint with the New York Yankees in the 2023 season, where he posted a disappointing 6.65 ERA and 6.14 FIP over 18 starts, his transition to the New York Mets breathed new life into his career. The latest season saw Severino revitalized, achieving an ERA of 3.91 and a FIP of 4.21, demonstrating significant improvement.
This resurgence is largely attributed to Severino's strategic adaptability on the mound. Increasing his sinker usage and employing a sweeper as his go-to secondary pitch allowed him to enhance his game in crucial ways. Statistically, he ranked in the 79th percentile for average fastball velocity and in the 72nd percentile for groundball rate in 2024—figures that underscore his effectiveness and potential to excel under pressure.
Setting a New Standard in Oakland
For the Athletics, Severino's acquisition is about more than just numbers. It reflects a strategic investment in a player seen as central to their plans for both immediate and long-term success. His past performance, highlighted by 161 strikeouts over 182 innings with the Mets, and a two-time All-Star accolade with a career ERA+ of 110 and WAR of 13.5, speak volumes about his caliber and leadership potential.
The inclusion of an opt-out clause following the 2026 season gives Severino flexibility, indicating a degree of mutual trust and ambition from both parties. This move not only enriches the Athletics' roster but also enhances their pitching depth, crucial for their anticipated relocation and rebranding efforts in Sacramento.
Building Toward 2025 and Beyond
As the Athletics prepare for their impending move, Severino's signing represents a significant piece in their evolving puzzle. The team is not only building a competitive squad but also aiming to make a strong cultural and sporting impact in Sacramento. With Severino at the helm of their pitching roster, the organization is sending a message of intent: they are determined to compete and succeed at the highest level.
The contractual investment in Severino underscores a broader trend within the franchise to attract and retain top-tier talent, paving the way for potentially more marquee signings in the future. In many ways, Severino embodies the spirit and potential the Athletics see in their new phase, aligned with their goals for a transformative journey.
As the Athletics strategize and train ahead of their move, Luis Severino's presence in the pitching lineup could very well be the catalyst that propels the team into a new era of competitiveness and innovation in Major League Baseball. Time will tell how this investment fares, but for now, Severino will don the green and gold, ready to deliver and establish a legacy in Oakland—and soon, Sacramento.