ESPN Major League Baseball insider Jeff Passan reported that outfielder Lawrence Butler agreed to a seven-year, $65.5 million contract extension with the Athletics. The 24-year-old player’s new deal has one club option and buys out two of Butler’s free-agent years. Meanwhile, the club option will extend Butler’s stay with the A’s.
Butler had a breakout season last year, hitting .262/.317/.490 with 22 home runs and 18 stolen bases. While the Athletics finished with a 69-93 record, he was easily one of the team’s best players. The Athletics hope that Butler and Brent Rooker (signed to a five-year, $60 million contract) will develop into reliable players.
In addition to Butler and Rooker, the Athletics signed Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract. They also acquired third baseman and Gio Urshela and starting pitcher Jeffrey Springs. These moves signify that the Athletics are looking to compete in the future, whether they represent California or Nevada.
-Lance Fernandez