The Athletics will leave Oakland after this season and temporarily play in a minor league park near Sacramento until their planned new stadium in Las Vegas is built.
The Athletics announced on Thursday the decision to play at the home of the Sacramento River Cats from 2025-27 with an option for 2028 after failing to reach an agreement to extend their lease in Oakland during that time.
“We explored several locations for a temporary home, including the Oakland Coliseum,” owner John Fisher said in a statement.
“Even with the long-standing relationship and good intentions of all parties in negotiations with Oakland, the conditions for reaching an agreement seemed out of reach. We understand the disappointment this news brings to our fans, as this season marks our last in Oakland. Throughout this season, we will honour and celebrate our time in Oakland and will share additional details soon.”
Fans angry with The Athletics’ decision
The Athletics announced last April their intention to move to Las Vegas and MLB owners unanimously approved the relocation request in November.
The decision angered fans in Oakland and the team’s low attendance dropped precipitously, with the club drawing a league-low 832,352 fans to the outdated Coliseum last season.
The Athletics drew 13,522 fans on opening night this year and a few thousand more protested Fisher in the car park, and failed to reach 7,000 fans at any of the next six games.
The Athletics will now play the next three seasons at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, near the state capitol and the NBA arena where the Sacramento Kings play.
The minor league stadium has 10,624 fixed seats and currently seats 14,014 fans with lawn seating and standing room.
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“I am thrilled to welcome the Athletics to Sutter Health Park, where players and fans alike can enjoy a world-class baseball experience and create unforgettable memories,” said Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé, who also owns the minor league River Cats.
“Today marks the next chapter of professional sports in Sacramento. The passion of our fans is second to none and this is an incredible opportunity to showcase one of the most dynamic and vibrant markets in the country.”
The River Cats will continue to play in their home stadium for the next three years and will share it with the Athletics.
Commissioner Rob Manfred thanked the Kings and Sacramento-area leaders for reaching an agreement.
By staying in Northern California, the Athletics are hoping to retain a large portion of their local television rights held by NBC Sports California, reportedly worth $67 million a year.