Brent Rooker quietly putting together stellar season for A's

Oakland A's outfielder/designated hitter Brent Rooker is easy to overlook.

The unsung journeyman had been traded twice in his career and joined the A's as an unheralded waiver claim. Rooker did not have his first extended look in the majors until his age 28 season in 2023.

However, Rooker is proving to be a steal for the A's. He earned an All-Star appearance in 2023 , posting a .246/.329/.488 batting line in his 526 plate appearances, hitting 30 homers and 20 doubles. Rooker was one of the few bright spots on an otherwise miserable A's squad, an intriguing player to watch heading into this season.

His 2023 showing was just a precursor of what was coming. Rooker has been one of the best players in the American League this season, posting a .298/.371/.579 batting line in his 539 plate appearances, hitting 35 homers and 25 doubles. He is tied with Rangers shortstop Corey Seager for 10th in the AL at 5.0 bWAR as he has established himself as one of the best hitters in the league.

Rooker is also about to enter arbitration. The A's have continually slashed payroll during the John Fisher era, with just seven players making over $1 million this season. While the A's were reportedly reluctant to discuss Rooker in trade talks at the deadline, that could change as he begins to earn a larger salary. However, he will remain a bargain despite his forthcoming arbitration raise.

Rooker had already been considered an under-the-radar trade chip. Now, he is proving to be one of the best players in the majors. He may not be overlooked for much longer.