A New Dawn for the A’s
For the past few years, the Oakland Athletics have been the underdogs of Major League Baseball. The looming departure from Oakland after the 2024 season has cast a shadow over the organization, and the roster has been young, undermanned, and unprepared to compete. However, as the team prepares for the 2025 season in Mesa, Arizona, there is a palpable shift in the air. It’s not just the anticipation of a new city in Sacramento that’s driving the change; it’s the renewed investment in the roster and a burgeoning sense of optimism that suggests this season could mark the beginning of a new era for the A’s.
A Team on the Rise
This spring, there is a buzz around the A’s camp, and it’s not just because of the new beginnings in Sacramento. After a series of strategic moves in the offseason, there is a genuine belief that the A’s are poised for a breakthrough. The team is being touted as a sleeper contender for the 2025 postseason, and the players are feeling the energy. Manager Mark Kotsay is well aware of the growing interest, and he sees it as a positive motivator for his team. "It’s exciting for them, and I think it’s exciting for us to have those expectations," Kotsay said, emphasizing the enthusiasm that permeates the clubhouse.
The Rising Stars
Youth has been the defining characteristic of the A’s over the past few seasons, and this year is no different. However, the youthful exuberance has matured into a confident and capable core. Brent Rooker, the All-Star designated hitter, has been the catalyst for the team’s offensive surge. After a breakout 2023 season, Rooker delivered his best performance yet in 2024, leading the team with 39 home runs and earning a five-year, $60 million extension. Rooker has not only established himself as a top hitter but also taken on a leadership role, guiding the younger players and fostering a winning culture. "I want to use those experiences to create a culture in this room that cares about one another, that cares about working, cares about improving, and is ultimately hungry to find out how good we could be," Rooker shared.
Emerging Talent
Rooker’s leadership is complemented by a group of young stars who are ready to make their mark. Center fielder JJ Bleday, catcher Shea Langeliers, right fielder Lawrence Butler, and shortstop Jacob Wilson are among the rising talents. Lawrence Butler, in particular, had a tale of two seasons in 2024. After a slow start, he returned from Triple-A to become one of the best young players in the game, slugging 20 home runs and posting an impressive .896 OPS over 84 games. This season, Butler is expected to build on his success and be a key contributor to the A’s offense. "I just wanna be myself," Butler said. "If I just continue to be me, have fun, play hard, and feel good, then everything will handle itself."
The Rotation Rebuild
One of the major areas of improvement for the A’s this offseason has been the starting rotation. After years of relying on a rotation that lacked depth, the team has made significant investments to strengthen this critical aspect of the game. Right-hander Jeffrey Springs, acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays, adds experience and stability. However, the centerpiece of the rotation is Luis Severino, who signed a three-year, $67 million deal, making him the highest-paid player in franchise history. Severino’s arrival brings both production and leadership. His success with the Mets last season, where he posted an 11-7 record with a 3.91 ERA, makes him a formidable presence on the mound. Off the field, Severino has already made his mark by getting his fellow starters fitted for custom suits, a tradition he started in New York. "I want to be that type of guy who wants to encourage young guys to just go out there and compete," Severino said, highlighting his commitment to team leadership.
A Changing Landscape
The American League West is no longer the dominant division it once was, and this could play to the A’s advantage. The Texas Rangers are the team to beat, but the Houston Astros have undergone significant roster changes, and the Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels have been relatively quiet in the offseason. This shift in the division’s dynamics opens the door for the A’s to make a push for a postseason spot. The team’s early schedule, which includes series against the Mariners, Cubs, Padres, and Mets in the first four weeks, will be a critical test of their readiness. Despite the challenges, the A’s are not intimidated. "We feel like we’re close to being able to do some things in this league," Rooker said, reflecting the team’s growing confidence. "We still have work to do, but the energy has definitely shifted this year. The expectations are higher, and we think deservedly so."
A Bright Future Ahead
The A’s are on the cusp of a new chapter, and the signs are promising. The blend of experienced leadership, emerging talent, and a strengthened rotation positions them well for a successful 2025 season. The team’s journey from underdogs to potential postseason contenders is a testament to their resilience and the strategic vision of the organization. As they prepare to take the field in Sacramento, the A’s are ready to show the baseball world what they are capable of.
