OAKLAND, December 26, 2025 – In a stunning Christmas Day gift, the Athletics secured their future, agreeing to a seven-year, $86 million contract extension with young outfielder Tyler Soderstrom, a deal that represents the largest guarantee in franchise history.
A Bright Future in the East Bay
The Athletics are signaling a commitment to their rising stars with a long-term investment in Soderstrom.
- Soderstrom’s contract includes an eighth-year club option and potential escalators, bringing the maximum value to $131 million.
- The 24-year-old slugger enjoyed a breakout 2025 season, hitting 25 home runs and driving in 93 runs.
- This extension solidifies Soderstrom as a cornerstone of a rapidly improving Athletics lineup.
- The Athletics have shown consistent improvement over the last three seasons, signaling a potential return to contention.
Soderstrom, 24, proved himself as one of the team’s most valuable offensive contributors in 2025, posting a .276 batting average, a .346 on-base percentage, and a .474 slugging percentage. He also showcased defensive versatility, playing both left field and first base, and ranked among the best left fielders in baseball according to the Statcast metric, Outs Above Average.
What makes this contract so significant for the Athletics? This deal isn’t just about Soderstrom; it’s a statement. It demonstrates the organization’s willingness to invest in young talent and build a sustainable contender in Oakland.
Building a Contender
Soderstrom joins a core of promising young players, including 2025 American League Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz, catcher Shea Langeliers, and outfielder Lawrence Butler. The Athletics further bolstered their roster earlier this week with the acquisition of Jeff McNeil, the 2022 National League batting champion, from the Mets.
The Athletics’ trajectory has been undeniably upward. Since 2023, the team has steadily improved, increasing their win total from 50 to 69 and then to 76 in the most recent season. This consistent progress suggests a team on the verge of something special.
Did you know? Soderstrom’s 25 home runs were a career high, and he played a key role in an Athletics offense that ranked 12th in MLB in runs scored.
The extension of Soderstrom’s contract is a clear indication that the Athletics are serious about building a winning team. With a core of young talent and a clear upward trend, the future looks bright for baseball in Oakland.
