The Oakland A’s have added a veteran arm to their bullpen, agreeing to a one-year, $2 million deal with free-agent reliever Scott Barlow. The contract also includes up to $1.3 million in performance bonuses, giving Barlow a chance to earn more if he delivers in high-leverage spots-a scenario the A’s are likely banking on.
Barlow, coming off a 75-appearance season with the Cincinnati Reds, brings both experience and durability to an Oakland bullpen that’s been in flux. In 2025, Barlow logged 68 1/3 innings, striking out 75 while issuing 45 walks and finishing with a 4.21 ERA. Those numbers might not jump off the page, but there’s value in a reliever who can take the ball as often as Barlow did and handle a variety of roles.
One of the more interesting notes from his season in Cincinnati: Barlow made the first start of his MLB career in September. It was a one-off, but it showed a willingness to adapt and fill gaps when needed-something that could come in handy for an A’s team still shaping its pitching identity.
Barlow had signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Reds prior to the 2025 season. But following the campaign, Cincinnati declined his contract option, parting ways with Barlow, fellow reliever Brent Suter, and outfielder Austin Hays. All three have since found new homes-Hays with the White Sox, Suter with the Angels, and now Barlow heading west to Oakland.
For the A’s, this is a low-risk move with potential upside. Barlow has shown the ability to miss bats, and if he can tighten up the command-those 45 walks were a concern-he could become a reliable late-inning option. With incentives built into the deal, the A’s are giving Barlow every reason to bounce back and re-establish himself as a trusted bullpen piece.
Bottom line: this is the kind of under-the-radar signing that could pay dividends if Barlow finds his groove. The stuff is there.
The experience is there. Now it’s about putting it all together in an Oakland uniform.