The Oakland Athletics have officially purchased land near the Las Vegas Strip, signaling their intent to move from their current location. (CNN) After years of tense negotiations, the A’s have reached a deal to acquire a stadium site, taking one step closer to their potential move. (The New York Times) The team plans to build a new ballpark and to move into it in 2027, as stated by the team president. (Los Angeles Times)
The Athletics have signed a binding agreement to purchase land for a new stadium with a retractable roof in Las Vegas after failing to do so in Northern California. (CBS News) The move comes after two years of cost-cutting measures that saw the team gutting their payroll. (Bleacher Report) With this purchase, though, the A’s have opened up their wallets yet again, eyeing a $1 billion new home for the franchise. (Sportsnet)
The new stadium is expected to be the cornerstone of a new mixed-use residential and commercial development in the Las Vegas area, and the A’s have stated that their move is for the purpose of building a world-class facility that fits the needs of their team and their fans. (San Francisco Chronicle) However, not everyone is thrilled about the move: some Northern California fans have expressed their disappointment and anger on social media, while others have acknowledged the financial realities of the sports industry. (Sports Illustrated)
Many local politicians and business interests in Las Vegas have hailed the move as an economic win for the city, with Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo speaking at a topping out ceremony for the stadium. (The Nevada Independent) The stadium deal has garnered support from Las Vegas lawmakers and business leaders, who have been seeking a major league franchise for years. (The Nevada Independent)
The A’s have released a statement about their possible move to Las Vegas, emphasizing their goal of creating a better stadium experience for their fans: “Our commitment to Oakland and the East Bay remains unchanged. We are committed to a shared downtown Oakland vision to build a publicly accessible waterfront ballpark that will additionally serve as a center for year-round activities and events for Oaklanders and East Bay residents alike.” (Sports Illustrated)
Only time will tell how the move will impact the team’s success and fan base, as well as the economic landscape in both Oakland and Las Vegas. However, for now, the A’s seem excited to make their mark in a new city and create a new chapter in their long and storied history.
