Curious about Luis Severino’s landmark deal with the Oakland Athletics? Signed to a lucrative multi-year contract, he’s set to become a key figure in the team’s rotation and a cornerstone of their plans for the future. The agreement raises questions about its impact on both Severino’s career and the Athletics’ trajectory in the MLB.
Here’s what we know about the deal, Severino’s recent resurgence, and what this signing means for the franchise.
What is Luis Severino and Athletics deal?
Former Mets star Luis Severino has signed a new two-year deal plus a player option with the Oakland Athletics.
The agreement includes a $10 million signing bonus. Severino can opt out after the 2026 season. This contract surpasses Eric Chavez’s six-year, $66 million extension in 2004, which held the previous record for the Athletics.
Severino, 30, had a bounce-back season in 2024 with the New York Mets. He posted a 3.91 ERA across 182 innings, marking his first full season since 2018. Known for his fastball averaging 96.2 mph and an effective slider, Severino struck out 161 batters. His performance helped the Mets reach the NLCS and restored his market value. This improvement led him to reject a $21.05 million qualifying offer from the Mets.
The Athletics have struggled to attract high-profile free agents due to budget constraints and their temporary relocation to Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. To secure Severino, they made a significant financial push. The signing aims to improve their roster and make a statement as they prepare to transition to a new stadium in Las Vegas by 2028. General Manager David Forst highlighted Severino’s leadership and experience as key factors in the decision.
As part of the signing, the Athletics will forfeit their third-highest pick in the 2025 draft, while the Mets will receive a compensation pick after the fourth round. Severino joins a rotation to bolster the Athletics’ improvement from their 69-93 record in 2024.
