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The MLB’s Oakland Athletics are the next pro sports team to tell Oakland to kick rocks, as the league itself is requesting that the organization explore relocation options. What is so bad about Oakland, and why are teams jumping at the chance to move as soon as possible?
The Athletics are on the hunt for a new home. Could joining the Raiders in Las Vegas be the answer? @SilverBlakPride https://t.co/t5rAGqbyU9
— SB Nation (@SBNation) May 11, 2021
Speculation has already begun regarding potential destinations, including a move to Las Vegas to reunite with the Raiders. This could also all be an elaborate power move in an effort to force the city into caving into the team’s demands regarding a new stadium deal.
Clear evidence of this sort of leverage attempt came via direct quote from A’s owner John Fisher:
“Oakland is a great baseball town, and we will continue to pursue our waterfront ballpark project. We will also follow MLB’s direction to explore other markets.”
John Fisher, Oakland A’s Owner
Whether leveraging a power move or simply stating facts, the Oakland A’s franchise is making it clear a new stadium is now mandatory wherever they end up playing.
It’s been 15 years since MLB established a blue-ribbon panel to study the ballpark situation for the Oakland Athletics.
— Buster Olney (@Buster_ESPN) May 11, 2021
According to true baseball expert Buster Olney, 15 years have passed since the MLB established a panel to look into the stadium situation in Oakland. 15 years and zero progress on a deal.
Sad yes, but far from surprising given that this will be the 3rd major sports franchise to pack up and say goodbye to Oakland in route to a destination more willing to commit funding toward a top of the line stadium. Whether it’s fair or not, it’s the ugly reality of pro sports. It’s all about the money for anyone and everyone involved.
