Oakland Athletics lock up Khris Davis for two more years

The Oakland Athletics have joined the list of teams locking in their stars, as Khris Davis has signed a two year extension.

Given the slow movement in free agency over the past two offseasons, more players have been signing extensions with their teams. Stars such as Nolan Arenado, Mike Trout, and Chris Sale have opted to sign a long term deal, preferring that security to the unknowns in free agency.

On Thursday, the Oakland Athletics joined that group. They have locked up slugger Khris Davis to a two year extension worth $33.5 million.

Davis’ consistency is quite well known, as he has produced a .247 batting average in his last four seasons. Yet, he is far more than a statistical anomaly, as Davis has been one of the best sluggers in the game. He has hit over 40 homers in each of the last three years, leading the American League with 48 home runs last season.

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However, that production does not mean that Davis would have received a better deal in free agency. While he was the A’s primary left fielder in his first two seasons in Oakland, he only spent 11 games in the outfield last season. At this point, Davis is essentially a designated hitter, getting those appearances in the outfield during interleague games.

Although that does not mean that he is incapable of playing that position, it does limit his market. Nelson Cruz had to settle for a one year contract last offseason, and J.D. Martinez did not sign until the end of February in the 2017-18 free agency period. Davis, understandably, did not want to go through such an ordeal.

This extension is certainly a good deal for both sides. Not only is Davis getting the type of payday that fits his production, but the A’s have locked in one of the key parts of their lineup. With the A’s looking to return to the postseason, his excellent power and consistency will be truly valuable.

The Oakland Athletics are keeping Khris Davis in town. He will remain rooted in Oakland until at least the end of the 2021 campaign.