Right-handed pitcher Aaron Civale and the Oakland Athletics have finalized a one-year contract worth $6 million, sources informed ESPN’s Jeff Passan on Tuesday. This agreement includes potential incentives that could add up to $1.5 million, marking Civale’s return to the Athletics as they aim to strengthen their roster for a possible postseason run this season.
Performance and Career Overview of Aaron Civale
At 30 years old, Civale brings veteran experience to a team seeking stability in its pitching staff. In 2025, he played for three Major League Baseball teams—the Milwaukee Brewers, Chicago White Sox, and Chicago Cubs—posting a 4-9 record with a 4.85 ERA and recording 88 strikeouts. Notably, after joining the Cubs later in the season, Civale transitioned to a relief role, where he excelled by striking out 14 batters in 13 innings with a 2.08 ERA across five appearances.
Civale’s time with Milwaukee last season was challenging, as he posted a 4.91 ERA over five starts before requesting a trade following his move to the bullpen. On June 13, he was traded to the White Sox in exchange for first baseman Andrew Vaughn along with $807,000 in cash. Subsequently, Civale was claimed off waivers by the Cubs on August 31, where he recorded his first career save and continued performing well in relief, maintaining a 2.08 ERA over five games while going 1-0.
He also appeared in postseason play with the Cubs, pitching 4â…“ scoreless innings in Game 1 of the National League Division Series at Milwaukee. Over his career, Civale has appeared in 140 games, compiling a 43-44 win-loss record with a 4.14 ERA.
Preparations and Prospects for the Athletics’ Upcoming Season
The Athletics are preparing for the new season with pitchers and catchers set to report for their initial spring training workout on Wednesday. The team’s first session involving the complete roster is scheduled for the following Monday. After finishing the 2025 season with a 76-86 record—their fourth straight losing year—the Athletics are focused on improving performance while continuing operations from a Triple-A ballpark in West Sacramento, California.
Looking ahead, the franchise plans to relocate to Las Vegas in 2028, where they will play in a newly constructed $2 billion stadium with a capacity of 33,000, signaling a significant investment in the team’s future infrastructure and fan experience.
