Ex-Rockies OF makes feelings known on Brent Rooker's $60,000,000 extension with Athletics

The Athletics reportedly offered a long-term contract extension for outfielder and designated hitter Brent Rooker on Tuesday evening. According to MLB insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the two parties agreed a five-year deal worth $60 million, which could rise up to $90 million if it's extended for another year.

Former Colorado Rockies outfielder Ryan Spilborghs said that Brent Rooker thoroughly deserves the contract extension because he has the personality as well as talent to be a leader of the Athletics clubhouse. Spilborghs feels Rooker could inspire the younger generation of players, as he has made the adjustments to succeed at the top level after a slow start to his career.

Ryan Spilborghs, a broadcaster for Sirius XM's MLB Network Radio, shared his thoughts on The Athletics offering a contract extension to Brent Rooker.

"When I consider somebody for an extension, I want somebody that does it the right way, performs at a high level, and can show the next group of guys that, "I was this way. I made this adjustment last year; I ended up hitting .290. I didn't do anything crazy. I just shortened up my swing a little bit," Spilborghs said.

"Do you know how much equity that brings to a clubhouse? So, yeah, I'm pumped for this guy. Five years, $60 million. I don't think he gets it if he had the same approach that he had in 2023," he added.

Rooker was drafted in the first round of the 2016 MLB Draft by the Minnesota Twins. However, he failed to make his mark at the major league level and was passed to the San Diego Padres and then the Kansas City Royals.

Rooker landed with the Oakland Athletics in 2023 and produced a breakthrough season in the MLB before following it up with an even better campaign last year.

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"He put the ball in play": Ryna Spilborghs on adjustments made by Brent Rooker

Brent Rooker produced 39 home runs and 112 RBIs last season. (Image Source: Imagn)

Brent Rooker posted an excellent campaign in 2023 even though the Oakland Athletics finished at the bottom of the American League West with more than 100 losses.

He was selected for the All-Star Game that year and ended the year with 30 home runs. Rooker continued his development as a hitter in 2024 and improved in nearly every facet of the game.

Ryan Spilborghs discussed the adjustments Brent Rooker made at the plate last year.

"He'd shoot the ball to opposite field when he got to two strikes," Spilborghs said. "When he got to two strikes, he wasn't taking his A-swing. He geared it down to level one to make sure he put the ball in play."

Rooker batted .293/.365/.562 during the 2024 season at an OPS+ of 165, along with 39 home runs and 112 RBIs. He finished 10th in the AL MVP race besides winning a Silver Slugger award.