Athletics Embrace Sacramento Era with Renewed Focus on Baseball
MESA, Ariz. — The Athletics are entering a new chapter in their storied franchise history, leaving behind the turmoil of Oakland and embracing their temporary home in Sacramento. For the first time in years, the players can shift their attention solely to baseball, free from the distractions of stadium uncertainties, ownership disputes, and dwindling fan engagement.
The transition to Sacramento has already made an impact on the team’s morale. Pitcher J.P. Sears expressed relief over the newfound stability:
“I think there’s a lot more focus on baseball now and less on the optics around us. We’re just like any other team now. Our goal this year is to make the playoffs and make a name for ourselves.”
The Athletics are set to play in front of sold-out crowds in Sacramento, a stark contrast to the sparse attendance at the Coliseum. Despite Sutter Health Park’s modest capacity of 13,800 fans, it surpasses last season’s average Athletics crowd of 11,386. The move brings an opportunity to cultivate a passionate new fanbase while still maintaining ties to their loyal Oakland supporters.
For years, the Athletics were known for their budget-conscious approach, but this offseason signaled a shift in direction. In a bold move, the team signed Luis Severino to a three-year, $67 million contract—the largest in franchise history. The former Yankees ace made an electrifying spring-training debut, showcasing the dominance that once made him a two-time All-Star.
Manager Mark Kotsay praised Severino’s presence on the mound:
“Every time he steps on the mound, he brings that passion, a lot of energy. He almost has that Dave Stewart look—fierce, determined, and ready to attack hitters.”
Beyond Severino, the Athletics secured their power-hitting All-Star Brent Rooker with a five-year, $60 million extension, reinforcing their commitment to keeping homegrown talent. The team also signed veteran infielder Gio Urshela, bullpen arms Jose Leclerc and T.J. McFarland, and acquired Jeffrey Springs from the Tampa Bay Rays, assuming his $10.5 million salary for the next two seasons.
These moves reflect a financial shift, with payroll jumping from $61.3 million to $90 million, outspending 18 other MLB teams in free agency—a refreshing change for a franchise often criticized for frugality.
Despite resisting the “Sacramento A’s” moniker, the team has been warmly embraced by the capital city. When the Athletics visited in January, they received a standing ovation at a Sacramento Kings game and experienced an outpouring of enthusiasm from local businesses and fans.
Outfielder Brent Rooker recognized the energy surrounding the team’s move:
“The city of Sacramento is passionate about their sports. They made it very evident that they’re excited to have us here, and we’re looking forward to feeling that energy.”
Season ticket demand has surged, with over 75,000 requests for opening-day tickets against the Chicago Cubs on March 31. The temporary relocation offers Sacramento a glimpse of what it’s like to have a Major League Baseball team, fueling speculation that MLB could consider the city for future expansion if the Las Vegas deal falls through.
The move has forged a sense of camaraderie among the Athletics players. Reliever T.J. McFarland acknowledged that despite lingering distractions, the team has embraced the transition:
“We’re going to Sacramento, and it’s going to be a big deal. But at the end of the day, the transition kind of brought us closer together. We’ve all turned into a family and learned how to block out the outside noise.”
Catcher Shea Langeliers shared similar sentiments, recognizing both the bittersweet nature of leaving Oakland and the excitement of starting fresh:
“There’s sadness in leaving Oakland, but at the same time, there’s excitement in Sacramento. The fans are ready for us, and we’re ready to embrace them.”
The Athletics have steadily improved, jumping from 50 wins in 2023 to 69 in 2024. If they hope to make the playoffs, they’ll need at least another 15-game improvement. However, last season’s 39-37 record post-July 1—one of the AL’s best—suggests the team is on the right trajectory.
Manager Mark Kotsay believes the team has the right mindset:
“Last year, there wasn’t a level of expectation to compete for the division. Now, this group is confident. They have that expectation for themselves, which is great.”
The Athletics insist they’re no longer a farm system for wealthier teams. With key extensions, offseason acquisitions, and an energized clubhouse, the team is determined to compete for the AL West crown before their eventual move to Las Vegas.
Though Sutter Health Park is a Triple-A ballpark, the Athletics believe it can become a fortress for them. Visiting teams are likely to be frustrated by the stadium’s smaller capacity, unfamiliar layout, and scorching Sacramento summers.
McFarland noted the psychological advantage:
“When opponents come to play us, they’ll be thinking, ‘Why are we here in Sacramento?’ They’re going to get caught up in the distractions where we won’t be.”
The stadium’s visiting clubhouse is the smallest in baseball, making road teams uncomfortable. Meanwhile, the Athletics have invested in a renovated clubhouse with improved amenities—though players will need to walk across the outfield to access it.
While the Athletics continue to transition, their goal remains clear: winning. Brent Rooker, who has committed to the team through their Las Vegas move, sees the recent signings as a sign of ambition:
“The Severino signing was huge. It showed we’re moving in a new direction—spending money, getting talent, and improving the team.”
With a rejuvenated roster, a city eager to embrace them, and a clear playoff aspiration, the Athletics are determined to redefine their identity. Though their future in Las Vegas is set, their present in Sacramento offers a chance to build momentum and prove that they belong among MLB’s contenders.
One lingering question remains: if the Athletics reach the playoffs in the next three years, will they be forced to host postseason games in a stadium with just 13,800 seats?
For now, they’re not worried. Their focus is solely on baseball, and they believe they’re closer than ever to bringing winning baseball back to the franchise.
