Athletics Set for Las Vegas Move After MLB Owners’ Approval

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, at a press conference following the league’s Owners Meetings, announced the unanimous vote by the MLB’s 30 owners to approve the Athletics’ move to Las Vegas.

Manfred acknowledged the emotional impact of this decision on Oakland fans, stating, “I know this is a terrible day for fans in Oakland…the status quo in Oakland was untenable.” The move follows longstanding issues with the aging Oakland Coliseum and unsuccessful negotiations for a new Bay Area ballpark.

This relocation is the fourth for the Athletics, who began in Philadelphia in 1901, moved to Kansas City in 1955, and then to Oakland in 1968. John Fisher, the team’s managing partner and owner, expressed his understanding of fans’ emotions but emphasized the necessity of the move, citing the Coliseum’s deteriorating conditions. He also expressed excitement about the new opportunities in Las Vegas, citing the success of other sports teams like the Raiders, the Golden Knights, and the Triple-A team, the Aviators.

In May, the Athletics secured an agreement for a new stadium in Las Vegas, setting the stage for their official relocation application. The state of Nevada and Clark County welcomed the team, with public financing contributing to the new stadium’s costs. The proposed 30,000-seat ballpark, located on the south end of the Las Vegas Strip, will feature a partially retractable roof and a unique outfield view of the Strip.

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo highlighted the economic benefits of this move, anticipating job creation and significant economic development. Despite the relocation, Fisher plans to retain the “Athletics” name in Las Vegas. However, with the Oakland Coliseum lease expiring in 2024 and the new ballpark’s expected opening in 2028, the A’s interim home remains undecided. Manfred expressed hope for a solution, and Fisher stressed the urgency of resolving this issue for scheduling purposes.

The relocation decision followed a report by a committee led by owners Mark Attanasio, John Middleton, and John Sherman, and received unanimous approval from the executive council. Fisher noted that the next steps involve finalizing a development agreement and collaborating with Las Vegas authorities, aiming for a groundbreaking in spring 2025.