The Oakland Athletics are on the brink of closing a significant chapter of their storied history as they prepare for their final homestand in Oakland in 2024. Since their move to Oakland in 1968, the Athletics have built a legacy rich with achievements, bringing home four World Series Championships, six pennants, and 17 division titles.
A Storied History
The journey of the Athletics began long before their Oakland chapter. Originating in Philadelphia, the team enjoyed early success, capturing nine pennants and five World Series titles between 1901 and 1954. The franchise then relocated to Kansas City in 1955, where it remained until 1967, albeit without making any postseason appearances.
The move to Oakland marked a new and triumphant era for the Athletics. "Oakland has been home for the greatest era in the franchise's more than 123-year history," notes Athletics' owner John Fisher. Over the years, fans have borne witness to countless memorable moments and welcomed seven players who were eventually inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
The Final Countdown
The final home game in Oakland is set for Thursday against the Texas Rangers, culminating an era that has been both dynamic and rich in accomplishments. Reflecting on their tenure in Oakland, John Fisher remarked, “Four World Series Championships. Six pennants and 17 division titles. Seven Baseball Hall of Famers ... The list goes on and on.” The sense of finality is palpable as the Athletics bid farewell to the city that has been instrumental in their journey.
The departure from Oakland, however, wasn't without prolonged attempts to remain in the Bay Area. Since acquiring the team in 2005, John Fisher and Lew Wolff ardently pursued the dream of building a new ballpark in Oakland. "When Lew Wolff and I bought the team in 2005, our dream was to win world championships and build a new ballpark in Oakland," Fisher recalls. Despite vigorous efforts, these aspirations didn't come to fruition.
Exploring New Horizons
The turning point came in 2021 when it became clear that the dream of a new home in Oakland was unattainable. “Only in 2021, after 16 years of working exclusively on developing a home in the Bay Area and faced with a binding MLB agreement to find a new home by 2024, did we begin to explore taking the team to Las Vegas,” Fisher explained. This marked the inception of a new chapter, filled with both excitement and uncertainty.
From 2025 to 2027, the team will temporarily reside in Sacramento while awaiting the completion of their new ballpark on the Las Vegas Strip, scheduled to open in 2028. This move signifies a significant transformation for the franchise, blending their rich history with the promise of a fresh start in a new location.
A Call to the Faithful
As the Athletics transition to this next phase, Fisher extends a heartfelt message to the loyal fanbase: “Looking ahead, I hope you will join our beloved A's as we move forward on this amazing journey. I hope I will see you again sporting the Green and Gold. And I hope we will make you proud.” His words echo the sentiment of an organization deeply connected to its roots and committed to forging a promising future.
The departure from Oakland is undoubtedly an emotional milestone for fans and the organization alike. Yet, it is also a testament to the tenacity and enduring legacy of the Athletics. With a storied past and an optimistic outlook, the team is poised to embark on a new adventure in Las Vegas, aiming to continue their tradition of excellence and create new memories for generations to come.