Lawrence Butler faces scrutiny after Athletics extend his contract
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 17, 2026, 8:37 PM
Last updated Jun 17, 2026
Lawrence Butler, an outfielder for the Athletics, is under heavy criticism as he struggles through the current MLB season. Signed to a seven-year, $65.5 million extension that runs through 2031, Butler has seen a significant drop in his performance metrics, including a negative WAR of -1.0 this year. Once a productive player, he has recently lost playing time and been relegated to the role of fourth outfielder. The Athletics face pressure to help Butler regain form, especially as other key players also struggle.
- •Butler signed a seven-year, $65.5 million extension in 2024.
- •He has struggled significantly this season, leading to reduced playing time.
- •His WAR has dropped from 3.0 in 2024 to -1.0 this year.
- •He has been less effective at hitting fastballs in recent games.
- •Bleacher Report labels him as the most scrutinized player on the roster.
- 8:37 PMYahoo Sports — Athletics' slugger facing heavy criticism under a massive contract extension
"A's outfielder needs to salvage his season.
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