In a landmark move, the Oakland Athletics have secured ex-Yankees right-handed pitcher Luis Severino with a three-year, $67 million contract, marking the most substantial financial commitment in the franchise’s history. The agreement includes an opt-out clause after the second year, providing flexibility for both Severino and the team.
Severino, who will turn 31 in February, revitalized his career with the New York Mets last season. On a one-year “prove-it” deal, he delivered an 11-7 record, a 3.91 ERA, and 161 strikeouts over 31 starts, reaffirming his status as a formidable presence on the mound.
The Athletics’ decision to invest in Severino is particularly noteworthy given the team’s historical financial conservatism. This contract surpasses previous high-value deals, signaling a strategic shift as the franchise prepares for its impending relocation to Las Vegas. The team plans to play the 2025-27 seasons in Sacramento before moving to their permanent home in Las Vegas in 2028.
Luis Severino, a standout right-handed pitcher, has inked a lucrative three-year, $67 million contract with the Oakland Athletics, marking a historic moment for the franchise. The deal includes an opt-out clause after two years, offering ex-Yankees star flexibility while showcasing the A’s intent to strengthen their rotation.
Severino’s career revival
After a series of injuries that hampered his career, Severino found his footing with the New York Mets last season. On a one-year “prove-it” deal, he posted impressive stats: an 11-7 record, a 3.91 ERA, and 161 strikeouts across 31 starts. This performance reminded baseball fans and analysts alike of the electric pitcher who had twice been an All-Star with the Yankees earlier in his career.
Severino’s journey has been one of resilience. Following a stretch with the Yankees defined by injuries, including shoulder issues and Tommy John surgery, his 2023 resurgence showcased his determination to return to elite form. As Severino himself once said, “Adversity doesn’t define you—it shapes you.”
By 2017, Severino had established himself as one of the best young pitchers in baseball. That year, he posted a stellar 14-6 record with a 2.98 ERA, earning his first All-Star nod and finishing third in the American League Cy Young Award voting. His dominance on the mound, characterized by a blazing fastball and sharp slider, made him a cornerstone of the Yankees’ rotation.
The following season, Severino continued to shine, earning his second consecutive All-Star selection with a 19-8 record and a 3.39 ERA. He became one of the most reliable and exciting pitchers in the league, further cementing his reputation as the ace of the Yankees.
Injuries and a difficult road back
Unfortunately, Severino’s career with the Yankees was marred by injuries. In 2019, after a strong start, he suffered a series of setbacks, including shoulder inflammation and a lat strain, limiting him to just three starts that season. The situation worsened in 2020 when Severino underwent Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the entire year and most of 2021.
Despite these challenges, Severino remained determined to return to form. The Yankees stood by him, providing the support and resources he needed to rehabilitate. When he finally returned in late 2021, Severino showed flashes of his former self, giving the Yankees hope that he could once again be a key part of their rotation.
A’s go big: A historic franchise shift
The Athletics, known for their traditionally tight payroll, shocked the baseball world with this record-breaking signing. The $67 million deal is the largest in Oakland’s history, a bold statement from a franchise undergoing significant changes. With their planned relocation to Las Vegas looming, this move suggests a commitment to competitive play in the seasons ahead.
For a team that has long operated on a shoestring budget, signing Severino signals a shift in priorities. It’s a message to fans that the A’s are ready to make investments necessary for success in a new market.
Severino’s role in Oakland
Severino’s addition addresses a critical need for Oakland, whose pitching staff struggled mightily last season. As the ace of the rotation, he is expected to anchor the team, provide veteran leadership, and mentor a young group of pitchers. With his ability to command games and deliver under pressure, his impact could be transformative.
The inclusion of an opt-out clause after two years reflects a pragmatic approach by both parties. For Severino, it provides an opportunity to re-enter free agency should his performance elevate further, potentially securing an even larger payday. For the Athletics, it mitigates long-term risk while demonstrating their seriousness in competing during this transitional period.
Fans and analysts have reacted with cautious optimism. While some see this as a gamble for a pitcher with an injury history, others view it as a necessary risk for a franchise seeking relevance. The A’s are banking on Severino’s proven talent and ability to rise to the occasion.
The former Yankees and Mets pitcher has expressed excitement about joining the Athletics. “It’s a new chapter,” he reportedly said. “I’m ready to bring my best to this team and help build something special.”
The Severino signing signals a broader shift for the Athletics as they navigate their impending move to Las Vegas. By securing a marquee player, the A’s are setting the stage for a more competitive future, aiming to attract fans and build a winning culture in their new city.
As Oakland prepares for this transformative era, Severino’s presence offers both stability and star power. If he can replicate his 2023 success—or even surpass it—this deal may be remembered as a turning point for the franchise.
For now, Athletics fans can look forward to watching Severino take the mound, armed with the talent, determination, and leadership that have defined his career resurgence.
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