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 seen numerous transformations and relocations. The franchise began its journey as the Philadelphia Athletics, making significant strides in the early years by securing three World Series titles by 1913.
In 1955, the team relocated to Kansas City and stayed there until 1968, when they moved to Oakland. Under the Oakland Athletics banner, the team added four more championships to their illustrious resume. Now, the Athletics are poised to embark on another chapter as they prepare to move from their long-time home at the Oakland Coliseum to Sacramento and eventually Las Vegas.
End of an Era at Oakland Coliseum
The final home game at the Oakland Coliseum was a historic event, drawing fans who started lining up hours before the gates opened. The atmosphere inside the Coliseum was electric, and A's manager Mark Kotsay likened the atmosphere to a postseason game. Groundskeepers were diligently working, collecting dirt, and preparing a new set of bases for each inning. Their efforts resulted in 27 new pieces of memorabilia. Both Mark Kotsay and Oakland groundskeeper Clay Wood received a set of these bases, marking the significance of the occasion.
Barry Zito, a beloved former player, delivered a stirring rendition of the national anthem, setting the tone for a memorable evening. The ceremonial first pitches were thrown by franchise legends Dave Stewart and Rickey Henderson. Stewart is celebrated for his remarkable achievements, including winning 20-plus games in four consecutive seasons and securing top-four finishes in Cy Young voting during each of those campaigns. He was named the 1990 ALCS MVP and the 1989 World Series MVP.
Rickey Henderson, another icon of the franchise, holds the MLB record for 130 steals in a single season and earned the 1990 MVP award. Their participation in the final game at the Coliseum added a layer of nostalgia and significance to the event.
Emotional Farewells
The move away from Oakland is more than just a physical transition; it is an emotional one for many involved with the franchise. Dave Stewart encapsulated these feelings poignantly, saying, "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 echoed the sentiments of numerous fans and employees who have dedicated their lives to the team.
The Athletics' history is marked by loyalty from players, managers, and fans alike. As the team transitions to Sacramento and eventually Las Vegas, it underscores the evolving nature of sports franchises. Despite the relocation, the legacy of the Athletics, along with the numerous memories made at the Oakland Coliseum, will always hold a special place in baseball history.
As this chapter closes, it is a moment of reflection on the incredible journey of the Athletics – from the Philadelphia Athletics to the Oakland Athletics and soon, to their new beginnings in Sacramento and Las Vegas. The franchise's history is rich with achievements, and the loyalty demonstrated by its community will continue to be a testament to its enduring legacy.