What's Going On With The Oakland A's? Explaining the Team's Las Vegas Move

In California, the sport of baseball isn't just a pastime; it's a part of our culture and identity. There are 5 Major League Baseball teams in The Golden State. The Oakland Athletics (or A's) have been a cornerstone of this identity since 1968. However, recent developments have brought forth the possibility of the A's relocating to Las Vegas, Nevada, causing a stir in communities and potentially leading to the city of Oakland losing another major sports franchise.

The A's, struggling with a less-than-stellar season, low attendance, and facing the expiration of their lease at RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland after the 2024 season, have begun the process of applying for relocation. The move to Las Vegas has inched closer to reality as the Nevada government recently approved a $380 million public funding bill for a new stadium on the Las Vegas Strip, the future home of the A's.

This publicly funded bill includes $180 million in transferable tax credits and $120 million in county bonds, which are taxpayer-backed loans. Interestingly, the A's would not owe property taxes and a special tax district around the stadium would be carved out. However, this bill isn't specifically tied to the Athletics. If the A's were to fail in securing the necessary funding for the rest of the project, the money could be used for another Major League Baseball franchise that wishes to relocate or expand.

The potential move to Las Vegas, the new home of the NFL's Raiders, who also moved from Oakland in 2020, signifies the city's growing appeal as a professional sports destination. However, this move may feel like a loss for Californians and Oakland residents, signaling the end of an era. With the Raiders leaving the state, Golden State Warriors moving across the Bay to San Francisco, and now the prospect of the A's leaving, the city would be left with no major league sports teams. This is a major blow to a city that has been known to support its teams through thick and thin.

While the Nevada government's support is a significant step, the A's still need to secure the approval of the other 29 Major League Baseball team owners. Given the supportive statements of MLB commissioner Rob Manfred, the owners are likewise expected to approve the A's proposed move.