A’s Transition to Natural Grass in Sacramento: A Player-Centric Decision
In a significant shift from earlier plans, the Oakland Athletics (A’s) will be playing on natural grass at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento starting in 2025. This decision, driven by player preferences and concerns over extreme heat, marks a pivotal moment for both the team and the city. The A’s will share the stadium with the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats, creating a unique dynamic in the world of minor and major league baseball.
The Shift from Turf to Grass
Initially, Major League Baseball (MLB) had proposed a synthetic turf surface for Sutter Health Park. The rationale behind this choice was largely based on durability, especially with two teams sharing the field. However, the potential for elevated temperatures on synthetic surfaces during warm-ups and batting practice raised alarms among players. Grass fields typically maintain cooler temperatures, rarely exceeding 100 degrees, while turf can soar well above that mark, particularly in the sweltering Sacramento summer.
A league spokesperson emphasized the collaborative effort with the MLB Players Association (MLBPA) to gather feedback from players at both major and minor league levels. The consensus was clear: players preferred natural grass for its safety and comfort. This feedback, combined with insights from MLB’s field expert, led to the decision to maintain a natural grass field for the upcoming season.
Player Health and Safety Concerns
The health and safety of players have become paramount in this decision-making process. Prominent player agent Scott Boras publicly criticized the initial turf plan, highlighting the risks associated with playing on synthetic surfaces in extreme heat. He pointed out that the summer temperatures in the Sacramento Valley often reach the 100s, making a natural grass field a more viable option for player well-being.
Boras expressed satisfaction with the outcome, noting that the focus on health and safety was crucial in the decision to move to Sacramento. He remarked, “Certainly more examination and review of the playing surface options was required. Very pleased the health and safety of players became an essential focus of the move to Sacramento. A positive result for city and MLB, players and teams.”
MLB’s Commitment to Mitigating Heat
Despite the decision to go with natural grass, MLB is still committed to addressing the heat issue in Sacramento. Commissioner Rob Manfred previously mentioned plans to schedule as many night games as possible to help mitigate the impact of high temperatures. This strategy aims to provide a more comfortable playing environment for athletes and an enjoyable experience for fans.
In addition to scheduling changes, MLB had also considered a hybrid option, combining synthetic turf for the infield with natural grass in the outfield. However, this option was ultimately dismissed in favor of a full natural grass field, reflecting the strong player preference for a more traditional playing surface.
Upgrades and Enhancements at Sutter Health Park
As the A’s prepare for their move to Sacramento, significant upgrades are planned for Sutter Health Park. These enhancements include a new home clubhouse, improvements to the batter’s eye for better visibility, and renovations to the dugouts and bullpens. These changes are designed to elevate the overall experience for players and fans alike, ensuring that the stadium meets the standards expected at the major league level.
Future Plans for the A’s
The A’s are set to play in Sacramento for at least three seasons, with a potential fourth season depending on the timeline for their new stadium in Las Vegas, targeted for 2028. This transitional period will not only allow the team to establish a presence in Sacramento but also provide an opportunity to engage with a new fan base.
As the A’s embark on this new chapter, the decision to prioritize natural grass reflects a broader commitment to player safety and comfort, setting a positive tone for their upcoming seasons in Sacramento. The collaboration between the A’s, MLB, and the MLBPA underscores the importance of listening to player feedback, ensuring that the game remains safe and enjoyable for everyone involved.