One of Major League Baseball’s oldest franchises, the Athletics, is turning the page on a momentous chapter in their storied history. Established in 1901, the Athletics have long been a pillar of baseball, with a legacy rich in both triumphs and transformations. This includes their early tenure as the Philadelphia Athletics, a shift to the Kansas City Athletics in 1955, and a relocation to Oakland in 1968. The franchise is again on the move, with plans to play their final home game at the Oakland Coliseum before relocating first to Sacramento and eventually to Las Vegas.
A Storied Franchise
The Athletics have a remarkable history of success, securing three World Series titles by 1913 during their Philadelphia days. After their move to Oakland, they added four more championships, further cementing their place in baseball lore. The decision to leave Oakland marks the end of an era, but it's consistent with the evolving nature of sports franchises, as they adapt to new markets and opportunities.
On the day of the final home game at Oakland Coliseum, fans began lining up mere hours before the gates opened, eager to partake in this historic event. The atmosphere inside the stadium was electric, akin to a postseason game, as remarked by A’s manager Mark Kotsay: "A's manager Mark Kotsay likened the atmosphere to a postseason game.”
A Day of Remembrance
The groundskeepers were busy collecting dirt and preparing a fresh set of bases for each inning, as 27 new pieces of memorabilia were being crafted. Both Mark Kotsay and Oakland groundskeeper Clay Wood received a unique set of these bases, marking them as significant tokens from the final game at the Coliseum.
Adding to the emotional weight of the day, former A’s pitcher Barry Zito performed a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem. The ceremonial first pitches were thrown by two legendary A’s players, Dave Stewart and Rickey Henderson, both of whom have left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Legends on the Field
Rickey Henderson, famed for setting the MLB record with 130 steals in a season, earned the 1990 MVP award, symbolizing his profound impact on the game. Meanwhile, Dave Stewart put together an astounding career of his own, winning 20-plus games in four consecutive seasons and consistently finishing in the top four for Cy Young voting during those campaigns. His accolades include being named the 1990 ALCS MVP and the 1989 World Series MVP.
Stewart shared his heartfelt sentiments on this significant day, reflecting on the inevitable changes ahead: "This day is here and I'll be honest I don't know what to do with it, how to think. What I feel is hurt. A huge piece of my life is being transplanted to someplace else. This is not your fault, but it sure hurts to my core. I hope it's not the end of our relationship, just our relationship as Oakland Athletics. I love you Oakland Coliseum and A's Baseball."
His words echo the deep connections and loyalties built over the decades, not just between the team and its players, but also with the fans who have steadfastly supported them through every triumph and setback.
Looking Forward
As the Athletics embark on their new journey, first in Sacramento and eventually in Las Vegas, the move highlights the evolving nature of sports franchises. Yet, their storied history and the loyalty of players, managers, and fans will undoubtedly remain a significant part of their identity, regardless of where they call home. The final game at Oakland Coliseum serves as both a poignant farewell and a hopeful look towards future endeavors.