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Oakland, February 9, 2026
A’s Lock Up Young Star Jacob wilson with $70 Million Extension
Table of Contents
the Oakland Athletics have secured shortstop Jacob Wilson with a seven-year, $70 million contract extension, signaling a commitment to their emerging core.
- Jacob Wilson, 23, received a seven-year, $70 million contract extension with an eighth-year club option.
- The deal comes after a breakout 2025 season where Wilson finished second in American League Rookie of the Year voting.
- The A’s have recently extended multiple young players, including Tyler Soderstrom, demonstrating a focus on long-term stability.
- Oakland finished the 2025 season with a 76-86 record, their best as 2021.
the Oakland Athletics and shortstop Jacob Wilson agreed to a seven-year contract extension worth $70 million on Friday, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. The deal also includes an eighth-year club option,providing further security for both the player and the association.
Building for the Future
Wilson’s extension is the latest in a series of moves by the A’s to lock up key pieces of their young roster. Just last December 29, the team signed Tyler Soderstrom to a seven-year extension valued at $86 million. This proactive approach suggests a clear strategy of building around homegrown talent.
What does this extension mean for the A’s future? It demonstrates a commitment to developing and retaining young players, potentially laying the foundation for sustained success in Oakland.
A’s general manager Nick Forst had hinted at these extensions earlier in the offseason, confirming on December 9 that the team was engaged in conversations with its core players. “Without naming anyone, we’ve made offers,” Forst said, per MLB.com’s Martin Gallegos. “We’re having conversations here. I’m hopeful we’ll make progress.”
A Rising Star
Wilson is coming off a stellar 2025 campaign, where he quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young shortstops. He finished second in American League Rookie of the Year voting, trailing onyl teammate Nick Kurtz. In 125 games, wilson showcased his offensive prowess, batting .311 with 13 home runs, 26 doubles, and 63 RBIs, all while maintaining an impressive .800 OPS. His performance earned him a well-deserved spot as a starter in the 2025 All-Star game.
Wilson first debuted in the majors in 2024, appearing in 28 games and posting a .250 batting average. Despite the limited playing time, he displayed flashes of potential with two doubles and two triples.
Financial Context
The Athletics currently have a projected payroll of $96 million for the 2026 season, ranking 24th among all Major League Baseball teams, according to FanGraphs. Wilson’s extension represents a meaningful investment in the team’s future, but one that appears aligned with their long-term vision.
