One of Major League Baseball's oldest franchises, the Athletics, is embarking on a significant new chapter in their storied history. Established in 1901, the Athletics have navigated through several transformations over the years, first emerging as the Philadelphia Athletics, moving on to become the Kansas City Athletics in 1955, and eventually finding their home in Oakland in 1968. The Oakland Coliseum, a venue steeped in memories and milestones, recently hosted its final home game for the Athletics before the team relocates, first to Sacramento and eventually to Las Vegas.
The significance of the occasion was not lost on the fans, who lined up hours before the gates opened to catch one last glimpse of their team on familiar turf. Inside the Coliseum, the atmosphere was electric and charged with emotion, reminiscent of a postseason game. "A's manager Mark Kotsay likened the atmosphere to a postseason game," a sentiment echoed by many present that day.
A Storied Past
The Athletics' legacy is punctuated by remarkable achievements. By 1913, the Philadelphia Athletics had already secured three World Series titles. The team's success continued after relocating to Oakland in 1968, where they added four more championships to their storied resume. The final home game brought many of those memories to the forefront, with legendary figures like Barry Zito, Dave Stewart, and Rickey Henderson participating in ceremonial roles.
Moments to Cherish
The day was marked by special performances and ceremonies. Barry Zito's rendition of the national anthem set a patriotic tone, while Dave Stewart and Rickey Henderson commanded attention with their ceremonial first pitches. Henderson's contributions to the game are monumental, including setting the MLB record with 130 steals in a season and earning the 1990 MVP award. Equally noteworthy are Stewart's accomplishments, having won 20-plus games in four consecutive seasons and securing top-four finishes in Cy Young voting during each of those campaigns. Stewart was also named the 1990 ALCS MVP and the 1989 World Series MVP.
Stewart's connection to the team and the city was palpable as he shared his feelings, stating, "This day is here and I'll be honest, I don't know what to do with it, how to think. What I feel is hurt. A huge piece of my life is being transplanted to someplace else. This is not your fault, but it sure hurts to my core. I hope it's not the end of our relationship, just our relationship as Oakland Athletics. I love you Oakland Coliseum and A's Baseball."
Creating New Memories
To commemorate the historic day, groundskeepers went to great lengths to create new memories. Each inning saw the preparation of a new set of bases, a task undertaken with meticulous care. The dirt was collected, and 27 new pieces of memorabilia were created by their efforts. Both Mark Kotsay and Oakland groundskeeper Clay Wood received a set of these bases, preserving a tangible piece of the day's events.
A New Chapter Beckons
The impending move to Sacramento and eventually Las Vegas signals a new era for the Athletics, reflecting the evolving nature of sports franchises. Despite the relocation, the Athletics' history remains a testament to the loyalty and dedication of its players, managers, and fans. The stories of triumph and community will endure, even as the team writes new chapters in a different city.
As the Athletics bid farewell to the Oakland Coliseum, the memories created within its walls will continue to resonate, a fitting tribute to a team that has greatly contributed to the rich tapestry of baseball history.