Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed confidence that the Oakland Athletics will be making their move to Las Vegas by 2028. Acknowledging the challenges of relocating from a long-established market to a new city without an existing stadium, Manfred emphasized that the process may not be entirely smooth but remains optimistic about the future.
Last June, the Nevada Legislature approved $380 million in public financing for a $1.5 billion stadium on the iconic Las Vegas Strip, slated for completion in time for the 2028 season. This move was unanimously approved by MLB owners in November last year, paving the way for the A's to make the transition to their new home.
Manfred expressed certainty in the solidity of the Las Vegas deal, stating, 'We believe the parcel is adequate for a major league ballpark. I think the delay in the renderings is due to the discussions between Bally’s and the A’s as to how the ballpark and what else is going to happen there is going to be most efficiently designed to make it the best possible experience for fans.'
While the A's current lease at the Oakland Coliseum is set to expire after the 2024 season, it remains uncertain where the team will play their home games in 2025. Options being considered include Oakland, Sacramento, San Francisco, or potentially a minor league stadium in Las Vegas.
Manfred acknowledged the complexity of the decision, stating, 'There’s conflicting considerations that kind of point you in one direction or another. So it’s not an easy choice as to where it'll be, but I do think they have been thorough in terms of exploring their alternatives.' The final decision of the A's temporary home for the 2025 season is expected to be made before the schedule is finalized in July.
The upcoming relocation of the Oakland Athletics has been a hot topic among baseball enthusiasts and the local community alike. The team's long tenure in Oakland has seen its fair share of ups and downs, and the move to Las Vegas represents a significant chapter in the franchise's history. While the transition may face bumps along the road, Manfred remains confident in the success of the venture.
As baseball fans eagerly await the completion of the Las Vegas stadium and the A's eagerly plan their future in their new city, the baseball world looks forward to witnessing how this move will shape the future of the Oakland Athletics.
