A’s Secure Future Talent: Lawrence Butler Signs Exciting Seven-Year Extension!

March 6: The Oakland Athletics have locked in a contract extension with right fielder Lawrence Butler. The deal spans seven years and is worth $65.5 million, with an option for an eighth year. This contract gives the A’s control over at least two of Butler’s potential free-agent seasons. The team is yet to formally announce the extension, which is pending a physical examination. Butler is represented by CAA Sports.

Butler was selected in the sixth round of the 2018 MLB Draft. His early years in the minors were challenging, but he found success playing in Low-A in 2021. He made his Major League debut in 2023, where he hit .211 in his first 42 games. Although his start was slow, he turned things around significantly in the second half of the season.

After the All-Star Break in 2023, Butler achieved impressive numbers, hitting .300 with 13 home runs and 32 extra-base hits. He ranked 10th among qualified hitters in wRC+ during that period, sharing the field with stars like Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. It’s important to note that while Butler’s performance was outstanding, the time frame was relatively short, so it’s still early in his career.

Before the All-Star Break, he had a batting line of .205/.260/.337 and struck out nearly 30% of the time. However, he made adjustments and reduced his strikeout rate to 19.8% in the second half. By the end of the season, he maintained a .262/.317/.490 line across 451 plate appearances. He hit 22 home runs and impressively stole 18 bases without being caught.

Butler often batted leadoff after the All-Star Break. His combination of on-base skills and power makes him a versatile player, suited to different batting orders. He has solid speed, and his defensive performance has been rated average by analytics, suggesting he might develop into a strong corner outfielder. Although he played most games in right field, he started some in center during his rookie season.

With this extension, Butler secures financial stability, which protects him against potential injuries or downturns in performance. His deal, while significant, is in line with what the A’s have offered other players recently. The franchise’s recent pattern shows a commitment to spending as they prepare for their move to Sacramento and eventually Las Vegas. With contracts signed for players like Luis Severino and Brent Rooker, the A’s are clearly looking to build a competitive team.

As it stands, Butler and Rooker are the only players under contract through at least 2028, aligning with the anticipated opening of the new Las Vegas ballpark. This deal is not just about Butler; it’s part of a broader strategy for the team’s future. General manager David Forst has hinted at more potential extensions in the coming weeks.

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