The Athletics have reached an agreement with left fielder Tyler Soderstrom on a seven-year contract extension worth $86 million, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. This deal marks the largest guaranteed amount in the franchise’s history and includes an eighth-year team option along with an escalator clause, potentially raising the total value to $131 million.
Soderstrom’s new contract provides him both a substantial pay increase and long-term job security. Prior to this extension, he was set to enter the 2026 season on a one-year, $820,000 deal. For the Athletics, locking in one of their promising young talents comes as they gear up for their relocation to Las Vegas.
At 24 years old, Soderstrom earned his first opportunity as a full-time starter during the 2025 season, his third in Major League Baseball. He appeared in 158 games and posted a batting line of .276/.346/.474, hitting 25 home runs, driving in 93 runs, and stealing eight bases.
The Athletics are planning to complete their move from Oakland to Las Vegas by 2028, with a temporary home in West Sacramento beforehand. Upon arriving in Las Vegas, Soderstrom is expected to become a key face of the franchise.
This new contract was announced shortly after the Athletics acquired former All-Star second baseman Jeff McNeil from the New York Mets. The team finished the previous season with a 76-86 record, placing 4th in the American League West.
Fan Take: This extension signals a strong commitment from the Athletics to build around rising stars like Soderstrom, giving fans hope for a competitive future. For baseball, it highlights how franchises are investing in young talent as foundational pillars during pivotal transitions, such as team relocations.
