LAS VEGAS — The Oakland Athletics faced a challenging season last year, with uncertainty looming over their potential move to Las Vegas. Despite the distractions, manager Mark Kotsay managed to maintain cohesion and focus within the team amidst growing fan protests over the relocation plans. The Oakland Coliseum often saw sparse attendance, and with the team seeming on course for another disappointing 100-loss season, motivations to play hard might have been low. Yet, the A’s ended the season with a respectable 69-93 record after an impressive 32-32 turnaround post-All-Star break, sparking new hopes for a competitive shift.
“He’s got that ability to steer us toward our main focus: playing baseball and winning games, regardless of off-field issues or what’s happening in the stands,” noted outfielder Lawrence Butler before their spring training match against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Las Vegas. Confidence in Kotsay’s leadership was further underscored when A’s management extended his contract on February 17, securing him through the 2028 season, their anticipated inaugural year in Las Vegas, with an additional option for 2029.
Owner John Fisher celebrated Kotsay’s impact, heralding him as “an incredible manager” and the embodiment of the organization’s future on-field endeavors, as well as a person of notable character. Fisher has faced criticism over his past reluctance to invest heavily in the team, especially since the A’s sported the lowest payroll in MLB for three straight years. However, as the franchise prepares for at least three seasons at a Triple-A venue in West Sacramento, California, Fisher’s commitment appears to have shifted, demonstrated by some significant offseason signings.
These investments include signing Brent Rooker, designated hitter and outfielder, to a five-year, $60 million deal, and securing pitcher Luis Severino with a franchise-record three-year, $67 million contract. Furthermore, an agreement was reached for a $65.5 million deal over seven years with Butler, pending a health assessment. “Ownership’s approach to the team has evolved,” Kotsay explained. Excitingly, Butler’s long-term agreement hints at the organization positioning him as a central figure as they transition to Las Vegas.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Butler commented, “It’s thrilling to foresee being here for an extended period. The signings happening before mine underscore our commitment to building a core that can contend consistently, not just for a single year.” Other emerging players, like shortstop Max Muncy from the 2021 draft, have also benefited from direct instruction under Kotsay, nurturing their skills and potential major-league debut.
Muncy praised Kotsay’s communication style, stating, “He communicates effectively, providing insights into where improvements can be made. Maintaining open dialogues with the manager is important.” This rising optimism has sparked talk of the A’s competing in playoff contention — discussions that were absent last year until after the All-Star break when the team substantially improved.
Reflecting on his leadership approach, Kotsay remarked, “With years in this sport, I draw from my experiences and guide the players through their journey, emphasizing the fundamental importance of the game and winning one game at a time. These guys have embraced that philosophy, and we are laying a solid foundation based on consistent, everyday improvement.”
