Mark Kotsay inspects Sutter Health Park ahead of historic home opener

In West Sacramento, California, the Oakland Athletics hosted their historic home opener against the Chicago Cubs on April 1, 2025. The game marked the beginning of a three-game series, excitedly welcoming Major League Baseball to this new setting. Athletics manager Mark Kotsay took the opportunity to walk around the field before the match, inspecting conditions after a morning rainstorm had made parts of the left-field corner swampy. Kotsay was optimistic that the field would be playable in time for the first pitch. Fans eagerly arrived, ready to support the Athletics, who moved from Oakland to Sacramento, and participated passionately with chants as they honored their past. Attendance reached a sellout with 12,119 spectators, showcasing the local enthusiasm for the team and the new stadium. The atmosphere was charged, reflecting a community eager to embrace its Major League Baseball franchise and make the most of this new era. Construction projects were still in progress at Sutter Health Park, but fans remained undeterred, donning A's jerseys and celebrating the team's new beginnings. The emotional connection remained strong with Oakland, as some attendees commemorated late Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, whose daughters threw out ceremonial first pitches. The Cubs, having already traveled to Japan and Arizona in their season, showed readiness for this encounter with the Athletics, allowing them to play a pivotal role in this momentous occasion. Despite the excitement, both teams faced injury challenges, with several players listed on the injured list. For the Athletics, injuries included Brady Basso and Ken Waldichuk, while the Cubs managed player absences as well. The importance of this game was not lost on anyone involved. Discussions among fans and players also hinted at future considerations regarding the Athletics' long-term plans, as there are ongoing discussions about possible expansion or moves, including mentions of potential developments in Las Vegas. The stakes were high for both teams, not only for the game itself but for what this new chapter means for the families, fans, and the entire city of Sacramento. This game not only marks an inning for the players on the field but also signifies a new cultural shift for Sacramento's sports landscape. Emotions were running high as the team and its supporters took this big step together. Observations from various players, coaches, and local authorities suggested that positive feelings should fuel a continuous drive to maintain such momentum—a new home, fresh aspirations, and strong community support positioned the Athletics for a promising future in the MLB.