A's Groundbreaking Signing: Luis Severino Joins Oakland
The Oakland Athletics have made a significant splash in the baseball world by securing the services of right-handed pitcher Luis Severino. In what is a landmark move for the franchise, Severino signed a three-year free-agent deal worth $67 million, marking the largest guaranteed financial commitment in the team’s history.
Revitalized Severino Bolsters A's Rotations
Severino arrives in Oakland following a revitalizing stint with the New York Mets, where he showcased his enduring prowess on the mound. Over the course of the past season, Severino made 31 starts, racking up 182 innings with a respectable 3.91 ERA and a FIP of 4.21. His performance was highlighted by striking out 161 batters, underscoring his ability to dominate hitters consistently.
The Athletics are banking on Severino's recent success and revitalized form to boost their pitching rotation. His increased reliance on his sinker, complemented by a sweeper as his predominant secondary pitch, has been a revelation. Severino’s impressive metrics from the 2024 season, where he ranked in the 79th percentile for average fastball velocity and 72nd percentile in groundball rate, are reflective of his adaptability and evolution on the mound.
A New Challenge in Sacramento
Adding to the intrigue of Severino's signing is the backdrop of the Athletics’ upcoming move to Sacramento in 2025. This transition represents a new chapter for the franchise, and Severino's high-profile acquisition could be seen as a strategic move to captivate a new fan base and establish a strong team foundation in their new home.
Despite his recent successes, it's worth noting that Severino had a challenging 2023 season with the New York Yankees, where he posted a 6.65 ERA and a 6.14 FIP over 18 starts, including a brief stint in relief. His performance during that period may have been subpar, but his subsequent resurgence with the Mets illustrated his resilience and capability to bounce back at the highest levels of the sport.
A Career Marked by Success
Luis Severino’s career thus far has been decorated with notable achievements. As a two-time All-Star, he boasts an ERA+ of 110 and a WAR of 13.5 over nine big-league seasons. This track record of success will undoubtedly be a valuable asset for the Athletics as they aim to overshadow their recent struggles and carve a pathway toward competitiveness.
Moreover, Severino's contract with Oakland includes an intriguing opt-out clause after the 2026 season, offering both the player and the team flexibility. This clause could serve as motivation for Severino to consistently perform at an elite level, recognizing that his future earnings potential might heavily depend on his showing over the next few years.
A Hopeful Future
For the Athletics, Luis Severino's signing signifies a bold and optimistic step toward their future aspirations. By investing in a pitcher of his caliber, the team enhances its immediate pitching arsenal while simultaneously sending a message that they are committed to building a competitive roster capable of contending with the best in Major League Baseball.
As the Athletics prepare for their upcoming relocation to Sacramento, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Severino to see if he can replicate—or surpass—his New York Mets performance levels. If his journey with the Mets is any indication, the Oakland Athletics and their fans have ample reason to anticipate an exciting and successful new era, powered by one of baseball’s seasoned and revitalized talents.