In Oakland, a somber reality has set in for sports enthusiasts as the last major professional franchise in the East Bay is bidding farewell. The Oakland Athletics, securing their place in the city’s sports history, are preparing for their final game at the Coliseum against the Texas Rangers, prompting fans to organize a wake in the downtown Jack London Square neighborhood.
The departure of the Athletics marks the culmination of a series of exits by professional sports teams from Oakland. The California Golden Seals, an NHL team from 1966-1976, struggled to maintain a competitive edge in Oakland and eventually transitioned to become the Cleveland Barons before merging with the Minnesota North Stars.
The Golden State Warriors, after a long-standing presence at Oracle Arena, known affectionately as “Roaracle,” moved across the bay to San Francisco’s Chase Center in 2019. Despite state-of-the-art amenities at the new venue, players like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green found it challenging to adjust to the change initially.
The Raiders, led by owner Mark Davis, departed Oakland twice, first moving to Los Angeles in 1982 before returning in 1995, and ultimately relocating to Las Vegas in 2020. The team’s departure marked the end of an era at the Coliseum, where the construction of “Mount Davis” altered the stadium’s landscape, disappointing some fans.
For the Athletics, Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred had long emphasized the need for a new ballpark for the team’s sustainability. Multiple attempts to secure a new venue within the Bay Area faced logistical challenges, leading owner John Fisher to explore potential opportunities in Las Vegas. Despite efforts by fan groups advocating for the team to remain in Oakland, Fisher’s relocation plan received unanimous approval from fellow baseball owners in November.
Amidst disappointment and frustration from fans, Fisher expressed regret over the team’s departure from Oakland, emphasizing their failed mission to stay in the city. As the Athletics plan to play temporarily in Sacramento before potentially moving to Las Vegas in 2028, the future remains uncertain for the team and its loyal supporters. Despite the bittersweet goodbye to Oakland, Fisher implores fans to continue supporting the team as they embark on a new chapter in their storied history.