Height
6'3"
Weight
210 lbs
Age
33
College
N/A
Draft
2011, Rd 6, #194
Experience
8 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsB-
| Year | Team | GP | ERA | W-L | K | WHIP | IP | SV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 445 | 3.633864 | 29-24 | 541 | 1.2829233 | 0.0 | 59 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$2.0M
Guaranteed
$1.2M
AAV
$2.0M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
The Athletics struck gold by landing Scott Barlow on a bargain $2.0M AAV deal that earns an A CVI grade, representing exceptional value for an above-average reliever in today's inflated bullpen market. Barlow brings legitimate late-inning credibility to Oakland's rebuilding efforts — a proven commodity who posted solid numbers with Kansas City before his trade to the Yankees last season. At just $2 million, the A's are paying roughly half of what similar relievers command in free agency, creating enormous flexibility to either deploy him as a high-leverage arm during their competitive rebuild or flip him at the deadline for prospect capital. This type of shrewd, low-risk signing exemplifies how small-market teams should navigate the reliever market, securing above-average production without the multi-year commitments that often backfire. Barlow's track record suggests he can handle 60-70 innings of quality work, making this deal a steal regardless of whether Oakland contends or sells in 2024. The one-year structure gives the front office maximum optionality while Barlow gets a chance to rebuild his value after a turbulent 2023 campaign.
Fan & Media Sentiment
The media and fan sentiment around Scott Barlow's signing with the Athletics sits in cautiously optimistic territory, with most coverage framing him as a steady veteran presence rather than a game-changing acquisition. The modest contract terms and Oakland's rebuilding context have tempered expectations, with headlines emphasizing his role as experienced bullpen depth and clubhouse leadership for a young roster rather than positioning him as a high-leverage closer. This measured enthusiasm stems largely from questions about whether his best years are behind him and uncertainty about how his skill set translates to a team still finding its identity. The sentiment actually undersells his recent production value — Barlow has been a legitimately above-average reliever who can handle meaningful innings, making the B- grade feel slightly harsh given his track record of consistent performance. A strong first half showing multi-inning effectiveness or clutch late-game work could easily shift the narrative toward viewing this as a shrewd veteran pickup, while early struggles would likely cement the "replacement-level signing" perception. Right now, public opinion reflects cautious pragmatism — fans appreciate the move as low-risk depth without expecting fireworks, which probably underrates what Barlow can still contribute to Oakland's development.
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