The A's have called Oakland home for 56 years, playing in the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum since their debut at that stadium in 1968. However, following the end of the 2024 season, nearing their future relocation to Las Vegas, the Oakland Athletics have unveiled plans that mark the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter. Starting from the 2025 season and running through to 2027, the A's will call Sacramento's Sutter Health Park their home, with an option to extend this arrangement for an additional season. This move comes as the Athletics' current lease with the City of Oakland just reached its end, bringing the end of an era for Oakland and other Bay Area fans.
In an effort to maintain local broadcasting revenue, the A's rejected their proposed 5-year extension to continue playing at the Oakland Coliseum and other offers in different states, such as Utah. However, the team is still dedicated to keeping the Athletic's team name and history, citing no plans to undergo a rebranding under their new stadium location.
Negotiations with the City of Sacramento began after the team realized they were far from agreeing to the terms needed to extend the A's stay in Oakland. John Fisher, the franchise owner, expressed his understanding of the disappointment this move might cause among fans, especially as it signals the end of the team's era in Oakland. Fisher acknowledged this, promising a season-long celebration of the A's history and connection with Oakland, with more details to be shared in the future.
As of right now, no comment has been made by the MLB Player's Association (MLBPA) on the potential upgrades and modifications that may come to Sutter Health Park due to the two venues having an almost 50,000 seating capacity difference. However, despite the potentially smaller venue, Sutter Health Park is ready to receive all the A's fans have to offer, as well as still housing the Sacramento River Cats, bringing a blend of both Minor League and Major League baseball to the city of Sac.
As the A's prepare for their stint in Sacramento, plans for their permanent home in Las Vegas are still in the blueprint phase. On April 9th, the Nevada Supreme Court will hear an argument by the political action committee Schools Over Stadiums that could impact their plans.
Regardless of their decision, in March of 2025, Sacramentans can get geared up to watch an Athletics game in West Sacramento.
Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg took to X (Twitter) to say he was "over the moon for my city, our region, and our state," about the announcement. "Today's announcement will give Sacramento a historic opportunity to once again showcase why we are one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic cities in the country. Sacramento is passionate about sports. Sacramento is passionate about baseball. Sacramento has an indomitable spirit."