The Last MLB Franchise Relocation: The Montreal Expos to Washington Nationals
The landscape of Major League Baseball (MLB) has seen its fair share of franchise relocations, but the last team to make such a move was the Montreal Expos. This Canadian team, once a staple of the National League, transitioned to the United States and rebranded as the Washington Nationals. The announcement of this significant change came in September 2004, and by 2005, the Nationals were playing their inaugural season in Washington, D.C.
The Expos’ Departure and the Twins’ Fate
Initially, the MLB had considered downsizing both the Expos and the Minnesota Twins. However, as negotiations and discussions unfolded, the situation evolved. Ultimately, the Expos lost their home in Montreal, while the Twins remained in Minnesota. This decision marked a pivotal moment in baseball history, as it underscored the complexities of franchise management and the challenges of maintaining a team in a city that had struggled with attendance and financial viability.
While the relocation of the Expos was met with mixed feelings from fans, the transition itself was relatively smooth. The franchise’s move to Washington, D.C., was executed with a level of professionalism that left many relieved, especially compared to the tumultuous situations that would later arise with other franchises, such as the Oakland Athletics.
The Oakland Athletics: A Complicated Move
The Oakland Athletics, who have called the Oakland Coliseum home for an impressive 57 years, are currently in the midst of their own relocation saga. Owner John Fisher has long sought a new stadium in Oakland, but negotiations with the city have proven to be contentious. As fans expressed their desire for Fisher to sell the team rather than relocate, the owner opted for a different path: moving the franchise to a new stadium in a new state altogether.
Where Are the Oakland A’s Moving To?
The Athletics are set to relocate to Las Vegas, Nevada. Plans for a new baseball stadium are currently in development, but completion is still several years away. In the interim, the A’s will play their home games in Sacramento for at least the next three seasons. This decision has sparked a mix of excitement and disappointment among fans, as they prepare to bid farewell to the Coliseum.
The A’s played their final home game in Oakland on September 26, 2024, defeating the Texas Rangers 3-2 in front of a sell-out crowd. The emotional farewell was marked by heartfelt tributes from fans and players alike, as they expressed gratitude for the memories made at the Coliseum.
When Are the A’s Moving to Las Vegas?
The Athletics are expected to begin their Las Vegas chapter in 2028, although these plans remain tentative as construction on the new stadium has yet to commence. The proposed stadium is designed to accommodate approximately 33,000 fans and promises an outdoor feel with stunning views of the Las Vegas skyline.
One of the standout features of the new ballpark will be the world’s largest cable-net glass window, which will face the intersection of Tropicana and Las Vegas Boulevards. Additionally, the stadium is set to include an 18,000-square-foot videoboard, which would be the largest screen in MLB, enhancing the fan experience in this vibrant city.
Where Will the A’s Play in 2025?
As the Athletics prepare for their move, they will spend the 2025 season playing in Sacramento. The team will utilize Sutter Health Park, which has previously served as the home for the San Francisco Giants’ Triple-A affiliate, the Sacramento River Cats. Interestingly, the River Cats are expected to share the stadium with the Athletics during this transitional period.
Sutter Health Park Capacity
Sutter Health Park has a total capacity of 14,014, featuring 10,624 permanent seats along with grassy areas where fans can enjoy the game in a more relaxed setting. This intimate venue will provide a unique atmosphere for A’s fans as they adjust to the team’s temporary home.
Will the Athletics Still Be Called the Oakland A’s?
Despite the relocation and the transition to Sacramento, the team will not undergo a rebranding. The Athletics will continue to be known as "The Athletics" or "The A’s," maintaining their historical identity even as they navigate this period of change. The decision to keep the name reflects a commitment to the franchise’s legacy while also looking forward to the future in Las Vegas.
As the Athletics embark on this new chapter, the journey from Oakland to Las Vegas is sure to be filled with anticipation, challenges, and the unwavering support of their loyal fanbase.