Brent Rooker Bio
Terry Brent Rooker Jr. is an American professional baseball designated hitter and outfielder for the Oakland Athletics of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Minnesota Twins, San Diego Padres, and Kansas City Royals. Rooker made his MLB debut in 2020 and quickly established himself as a formidable player. He was selected to the 2023 MLB All-Star Game and won the American League Silver Slugger Award at designated hitter in 2024. Rooker was again named an All-Star in 2025.
Early Life and Background
Terry Brent Rooker Jr. was born on November 1, 1994, in Germantown, Tennessee. He attended Evangelical Christian School in Memphis, Tennessee, where he began to develop his skills in baseball. Rooker’s early exposure to the sport laid the foundation for his future career in professional baseball.
After high school, Rooker enrolled at Mississippi State University to play college baseball for the Mississippi State Bulldogs. He redshirted for the 2014 season but made a significant impact in the following years. In 2016, he played a crucial role in leading the Bulldogs to an Southeastern Conference (SEC) championship, showcasing his talent with a batting average of .324 and 54 runs batted in (RBIs).
Path to Baseball
Rooker’s college career reached new heights in 2017 when he was named Collegiate Baseball national Player of the Year and SEC Player of the Year. He led the conference with a .387 batting average, 23 home runs, and 82 RBIs, achieving a rare triple crown in SEC history. His outstanding performance earned him the C Spire Ferriss Trophy, awarded to Mississippi’s top college baseball player.
Following his successful college career, Rooker was selected by the Minnesota Twins with the 35th overall pick in the 2017 Major League Baseball draft. He signed with the Twins for a $1.935 million signing bonus and began his journey through the minor leagues, where he continued to impress with his batting skills.
Brent Rooker Career
Early Career (2020–2021)
Rooker made his major league debut on September 4, 2020, against the Detroit Tigers. During his time with the Minnesota Twins, he showcased his potential as a power hitter. In his rookie season, he played in 22 games, hitting .201 with 3 home runs and 10 RBIs.
In 2021, Rooker continued to develop his skills, but he faced challenges in securing a consistent spot on the roster. His time with the Twins was marked by ups and downs, leading to a trade to the San Diego Padres in April 2022.
Breakthrough (2022–Present)
Rooker’s time with the San Diego Padres was short-lived, as he was traded to the Kansas City Royals in August 2022. However, it was with the Oakland Athletics that Rooker truly began to shine. After being claimed off waivers by the Athletics in November 2022, he earned a spot on the team’s roster out of spring training.
In 2023, Rooker had a breakout season, leading the Athletics in several offensive categories, including home runs and RBIs. He was named the American League Player of the Week on May 1, 2023, after an impressive performance that included five home runs in a week. His success culminated in his selection to the 2023 MLB All-Star Game, where he represented the Athletics as their sole representative.
Notable Works and Milestones
Brent Rooker’s signature work includes his performance during the 2024 season, where he won the Silver Slugger Award for designated hitters. He played in all 162 games for the first time in his career and finished the season with 30 home runs and 89 RBIs, solidifying his status as a key player for the Athletics.
Brent Rooker Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Brent Rooker has received several nominations, including his recognition as an All-Star in 2023 and 2025, showcasing his talent and impact on the field.
Brent Rooker Awards Won
Brent Rooker has won notable awards, including the Silver Slugger Award in 2024, highlighting his exceptional performance as a designated hitter in Major League Baseball.
Brent Rooker Family
Details about Brent Rooker’s family are not publicly available, as he has kept his personal life private.
Personal Life
Brent Rooker has not publicly disclosed information regarding his marital status or relationships, maintaining a focus on his professional career.