One of Major League Baseball's oldest franchises, the Athletics, is on the verge of closing a significant chapter in their illustrious history. Established in 1901, the Athletics have undergone numerous changes, from their beginnings as the Philadelphia Athletics to becoming the Kansas City Athletics in 1955, and eventually settling in Oakland in 1968. The team is now set to play their final home game at Oakland Coliseum before relocating to Sacramento and ultimately Las Vegas.
A Storied Legacy
By 1913, the Philadelphia Athletics had already secured three World Series titles. Upon their move to Oakland, the achievements continued with four more championships added to their collection. This historical success is etched in baseball lore and is a testament to the franchise’s resilience and competitive spirit.
Farewell to Oakland
Thursday’s game at the Coliseum was more than just a regular season match. Fans lined up hours before the gates opened, creating an atmosphere that A's manager Mark Kotsay likened to a postseason game. The scene was electric, buzzing with a sense of nostalgia and finality.
Inside, the groundskeepers were making painstaking preparations, collecting dirt and setting up new bases for each inning. These efforts weren't just for the game—they were creating 27 new pieces of memorabilia. Both Mark Kotsay and Oakland groundskeeper Clay Wood were given a set of these meaningful bases as keepsakes.
Honoring Legends
The pre-game ceremonies added to the sense of occasion. Former Athletics pitcher Barry Zito performed the national anthem, setting the tone for an emotional evening. Oakland legends Dave Stewart and Rickey Henderson, who have contributed significantly to the team's success, threw out the ceremonial first pitches. Henderson, a record-setting player with 130 steals in a season and the 1990 MVP award, and Stewart, who won 20-plus games in four consecutive seasons and was named MVP of both the 1990 ALCS and the 1989 World Series, were fitting representatives to mark this significant transition.
Reflecting on the move, Dave Stewart expressed his profound sense of loss. "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," he said, echoing the sentiments of many fans.
An Evolving Future
The Athletics' impending move to Sacramento and eventually to Las Vegas highlights the evolving nature of sports franchises. It's a reality of the modern sports landscape, driven by various economic and logistical factors. Yet, the deep-seated loyalty of players, managers, and fans remains a constant thread through the franchise’s history.
As the Athletics prepare to embark on this new journey, their legacy is already well-established. From the early championship years in Philadelphia to the powerful strides in Oakland, the team’s history is rich with accomplishments and unforgettable moments. While the location might change, the spirit and pride of the Athletics endure.
The final game at Oakland Coliseum is more than a milestone; it is a bridge between a cherished past and an anticipated future. The Athletics may be leaving Oakland, but the memories and impact they have had in the city will forever remain an integral part of baseball history.