The Oakland A’s are never going to spend at the top of the free agent market. In fact, while the rest of the AL West appears to be gearing up to contend, the A’s are planning on slashing payroll as much as possible. Reports stated that ownership wanted to cut payroll down to $50 million at most, and if they can come in under that mark, so much the better.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, we have the New York Mets. Owner Steve Cohen is determined to buy the best team possible, culminating with their signing of Max Scherzer to a three year deal where he will make $43 million per year.
Max Scherzer could earn more than entire Oakland A’s roster
As it stands, Scherzer is already set to earn more than the projected payrolls of the Guardians and Orioles for 2022. But those numbers could change, at least in Cleveland – the Guardians are attempting to be competitive next year.
But that will likely not be the case for the A’s. They have already sent out the sale fliers, claiming that their cutting of payroll is just a part of the natural cycle of their organization. Of course, the Coliseum is going to get the crux of the blame as ownership pushes for a new stadium.
Instances such as this have happened before. Trevor Bauer was set to make more than the Guardians entire payroll before they made a few signings. Alex Rodriguez once made more than the Astros roster during their rebuilding process. Unless a salary floor comes into being, these situations will continue to occur.
The Oakland A’s are looking to slash their payroll as much as possible. Given his new contract, it is possible that Max Scherzer will make more than the entire roster.