Regardless of ending seven video games higher in 2025 (76-86) than they did in 2024 (69-93), the Athletics are nonetheless a methods off from being a playoff-caliber ball membership.
The A’s have the items to develop into a playoff staff, and after buying infielder Jeff McNeil to present them one other veteran presence of their younger clubhouse, the A’s are one step nearer to that objective. McNeil joins a core that options designated hitter Brent Rooker and outfielders Lawrence Butler and Tyler Soderstrom, the latter of whom was the newest recipient of an enormous contract extension.
In line with ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Athletics and Soderstrom have agreed to a seven-year, $86 million contract, which is the most important assured contract in Athletics historical past. Passan additionally reviews that the deal features a membership choice for an eighth yr and will high out money-wise to $131 million.
A catcher by commerce, Soderstrom spent 108 of his 158 video games performed in 2025 out in left subject and carried out effectively, having a optimistic defensive runs saved of 14. Soderstrom additionally dedicated two errors in 244 possibilities (867.2 innings) and had two double performs beneath his belt. On the plate, the 24-year-old had a breakout season, batting .276 with an OPS of .820 and mashed 25 residence runs whereas driving in 93 RBI.
