Luis Severino, the veteran right-hander for the Oakland Athletics, has significantly improved his performance after a slow start to the season, turning heads with his Luis Severino trade deadline performance. While he managed just two wins during the season’s first half, Severino has secured three victories in his first three starts following the All-Star break, lifting his overall record to 5-11.
On Tuesday night at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, Severino competed against the Seattle Mariners, facing some early struggles on the mound with back-to-back missteps in the first inning. Despite this, he quickly recovered, striking out the entire first inning lineup and limiting damage throughout the game.
Game-by-Game Highlights Against Seattle Mariners
Severino displayed control and endurance by striking out ten Mariners consecutively before encountering challenges in the fourth inning. With two outs, Randy Arozarena singled and stole second base, continuing his streak of 20-20 seasons to five years straight. This was followed by an RBI single from Jorge Polanco, and consecutive hits and a walk by Dominic Canzone and Ben Williamson which loaded the bases. However, defensive support from recently promoted Darell Hernaiz stopped a hard-hit ball by Cole Young, preserving the lead and ending the threat.
Throughout the outing, Severino’s pitch count rose rapidly, reaching 82 by the end of the fourth inning. Although he surrendered a double to Julio Rodríguez in the fifth, no further runs scored before Severino left the game holding a 4-1 lead. The Athletics bolstered that lead with two additional runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, including a solo home run by Shea Langeliers and an RBI double from Miguel Andújar.
Statistical Improvements and Pitching Strategy
Finishing with five innings pitched, Severino allowed five hits and one earned run, issuing two walks while striking out six. His season ERA dropped to 4.83, and his effectiveness in his three post-All-Star appearances is notable: a 3-0 record combined with a 2.67 ERA over 17 innings. Additionally, his home ERA decreased from 6.68 before Tuesday’s game to 6.04 following the performance. A key factor in his resurgence has been his reliance on the fastball, throwing it 44% of the time, which has contributed to his second-half turnaround.
Trade Deadline Considerations and Potential Moves
Severino’s recent success raises questions about his future with the Athletics as the trade deadline approaches. While his $25 million salary owed in 2026 complicates potential deals, his strong road outings and current form might attract interest from other teams. The Athletics may need to absorb a portion of his contract—estimated between $7 million and $10 million—to secure a valuable prospect in return. Alternatively, they could retain Severino, especially if he sustains his improved home performance, potentially making him a key part of Oakland’s roster beyond this season.
With the trade deadline looming on Thursday, Severino’s trajectory may shape not only his career but also the Athletics’ strategy moving forward, balancing financial considerations with on-field performance.