Severino Makes Franchise History with A's Record-Breaking Deal
In a historic move, Luis Severino has inked a deal with the Oakland Athletics that shakes the franchise's financial landscape. The three-year, $67 million deal marks the largest guaranteed financial commitment in the A's history, signaling a significant shift in strategy for the team as they prepare for a new chapter in Sacramento.
The right-handed pitcher arrives in Oakland following a revitalizing stint with the New York Mets. His recent performance demonstrated a successful bounce-back after a challenging season with the Yankees in 2023. During his time with the Mets, Severino made 31 starts and pitched 182 innings, showcasing an impressive endurance that appealed to the Athletics' management. His 3.91 ERA and 4.21 FIP highlight a return to form that included 161 strikeouts — a testament to his capability and promise.
A New Start for the Athletics
The signing of Severino comes at a pivotal moment for the Oakland Athletics as they plot their relocation to Sacramento in 2025. By securing a player of Severino's caliber, the A's are not only investing in talent but also aiming to energize their future endeavors. The move demonstrates their ambition to establish a formidable presence in their new home, with Severino potentially leading the charge from the mound.
Severino's resurgence with the Mets is notable given his struggles in the previous season with the Yankees. In 2023, he managed only an 18-start season with a 6.65 ERA and a 6.14 FIP. However, the 2024 season saw Severino refining his arsenal, perhaps most significantly by increasing his sinker usage and leaning on a sweeper as his secondary pitch. These adjustments likely contributed to his ranking in the 79th percentile for average fastball velocity and the 72nd percentile for groundball rate, demonstrating a maturation in his pitching style that the Athletics are now set to benefit from.
Looking at the Numbers
Severino's career numbers further underscore his value. Over nine big-league seasons, he has accrued an ERA+ of 110 and a WAR of 13.5, numbers bolstered by his two All-Star selections. These figures provide a reassuring backdrop to the Athletics' record investment, as Severino brings both experience and proven capability to the team.
An intriguing element of Severino's contract with the Athletics is the opt-out clause following the 2026 season. This provision adds an incentive for both parties — for Severino, an opportunity to assess his market value, and for the Athletics, the assurance that they have secured a top player at his peak performance level with flexibility for the future.
Impact Beyond the Dollar Signs
The financial commitment made to Severino also reflects broader aspirations for the Athletics. As they transition to Sacramento, such high-profile signings could be instrumental in capturing new fan interest and building a competitive team that resonates with the community. Severino's presence is expected to bring more than just skill to the pitching rotation; it is a declaration of the organization’s evolving ambition.
This signing has set the stage for a transformative era in Athletics' history, and the expectations for Severino to lead by example are palpable. Whether he continues his momentum from his recent season or encounters new challenges, the eyes of both Oakland and Sacramento will be keenly watching.
For Luis Severino and the Athletics, this alliance offers a promise of revitalization and competitive zeal, a harmonized step towards both individual redemption and collective aspiration. As they prepare for future seasons, both parties will hope this historic deal lays the foundation for success.