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Athletics might not be done spending, could sign more young players to extensions ahead of Las Vegas move
Could the Athletics extend first baseman Nick Kurtz? Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

Athletics might not be done spending, could sign more young players to extensions ahead of Las Vegas move

The Athletics have actively locked in their core players.

Outfielder Lawrence Butler and designated hitter/outfielder Brent Rooker signed long-term extensions during the 2024-25 offseason. Fellow outfielder Tyler Soderstrom received a seven-year, $86 million extension on Christmas, locking in another key part of the lineup.

The A's may not be done. According to Katie Woo and Will Sammon of The Athletic, the A's are having "ongoing conversations" with younger players as they look to build a winning franchise to coincide with their move to Las Vegas.

Athletics have several intriguing players left to lock up

The A's have several potential targets. Catcher Shea Langeliers is entering arbitration for the first time and has three years of team control left. He has hit at least 22 homers in each of his three full seasons in the majors, providing excellent power from the catcher position.

First baseman Nick Kurtz and shortstop Jacob Wilson would be strong candidates for an extension as well. The AL Rookie of the Year and runner-up, Kurtz and Wilson are drastically different players, but both could be cornerstones for the franchise. Kurtz showed that he could be one of the better young power hitters in the majors, belting 36 homers, including a four-home run game where he became the first rookie to accomplish that feat in MLB history. Chances are, Kurtz would be the most difficult of that group to extend as he could command a larger deal if he can replicate his successful rookie season.

Wilson is noted for his contact ability, striking out just 39 times over his 523 plate appearances. He did some damage with the bat as well, hitting 13 homers and 26 doubles. While there are questions about the quality of contact as Wilson was far below average in hard-hit rate (24.8%) and average exit velocity (84.1 mph), he is a solid defensive shortstop.

The A's have an exciting core that is beginning to establish itself at the major league level. It may be a matter of time before the A's lock in other pieces from that group.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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