MLB sportscaster gives bold prediction for Athletics after Brent Rooker's $60,000,000 contract extension

The Athletics made waves by signing outfielder Brent Rooker to a five-year, $60 million contract extension, signaling a shift in strategy for a franchise often criticized for its conservative spending in the offseason. The deal, seen by many as a pivotal moment, has sparked optimism among fans and analysts alike.

MLB sportscaster Harold Reynolds went a step ahead making a bold prediction for the franchise that's locking up players. The next thing we know: they're in contention to win the AL West, if they keep doing it, as per Reynolds.

"There's been a turning of the guard," Reynolds said on MLB Network. "The Athletics are locking up their players. And I'm telling you, Robert, this team last year was one of the best teams in baseball. I've been on this bandwagon of 'Look out for the A's.'

"I think they can win the West. Look, if they keep doing things like this, they're going to be a formidable opponent. This organization has been championed for so many years, and I'm ecstatic."

Reynolds also slammed analytics who don't see Brent Rooker continuing to produce at an elite level.

"The guy's 30. They're not sitting there going, 'Analytically, he's not going to be able to produce in two years.' No, this is your best player. This is great for baseball. It is great for the A's," Reynolds added.

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Robert Flores heaps praise on Brent Rooker for grabbing the opportunity with both hands

The road to his $60 million extension hasn't been easy for Brent Rooker.

"The importance of an opportunity. Sometimes it's not just talent alone that allows you to thrive, stay, or become a big league All-Star," Robert Flores said.

After making his debut with the Minnesota Twins in 2020, Rooker was traded to the San Diego Padres in Apr. 2022. In August, he was again traded to the Kansas City Royals before being DFA'd in November.

The same month, the Athletics picked Brent Rooker off waivers as he earned his spot on the 2023 roster in Spring Training. He ended the season leading the club in home runs (30), RBIs (69), OPS (.817) and a few other categories, while also being named to his first All-Star team.

"The Athletics picked him up off waivers. And what did Rooker do? He got at-bats. He got opportunities. He got consistent opportunities. And I think sometimes that gets dismissed more often than not," Flores said.

After batting .293/.365/.562 with 39 home runs, 112 RBI and 11 stolen bases last season, the Athletics extended him to five more years.