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Athletics Power Hitter to Miss Time Following Surgery

Originally posted on Last Word On Sports
By Matt Graves, Site Manager | Last updated 10/4/24

Oakland Athletics general manager David Forst announced on Friday that outfielder Brent Rooker underwent successful right forearm surgery on Tuesday, as reported by Martin Gallegos of MLB.com. Despite dealing with elbow and forearm discomfort for most of the season, Rooker’s performance at the plate remained impressive, with a .927 OPS and 39 home runs. However, the injury might have contributed to his limited outfield starts after May. Fortunately, Rooker is expected to make a full recovery in time for spring training.

Brent Rooker had been dealing with an elbow issue all year and A’s GM David Forst just confirmed he underwent right forearm extensor surgery after the season ended. He’s expected to be fully ready for Spring Training.

— Martín Gallegos (@MartinJGallegos) October 4, 2024

Brent Rooker Undergoes Forearm Procedure

With the future of the organization up in the air, there are a few bright spots around the A’s. In 2022, Oakland claimed Rooker off waivers. He flashed some promise with 30 home runs and a .817 OPS in 2023. The 29-year-old broke out in a big way this season, slashing .293/.365/.562, putting him in the top 10 in home runs, RBI (112) and OPS.

Rooker was named an All-Star in 2023, and he has taken his overall offensive game to another level. On September 5 of last season, his batting average sat at .242 with 143 strikeouts. One year later, Rooker’s average was almost 60 points higher. Although, he struck out more (152) at that point than he did last year. He is finding ways to collect hits even when his power stroke isn’t fully there.

In the last two months of the season, Rooker and Lawrence Butler led the A’s offense, propelling the team to a 39-37 record since July 2. While Rooker and Butler have been instrumental to Oakland’s success, other standout hitters like JJ Bleday and Shea Langeliers also made significant contributions, each finishing the season with 20 or more home runs.

Rooker will remain with the A’s as he is under club control until 2028. The A’s look to compete next season with their young core and prospects on the rise.

This article first appeared on Last Word On Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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