Sacramento A's embark on risky trial run before planned Las Vegas move
- The A's have commenced their three-year trial period at Sutter Health Park, marking the first MLB games in West Sacramento.
- Local officials and economists believe that city engagement and strong corporate sponsorship are crucial to proving the city's worth to MLB.
- Sacramento is aiming to garner long-term support for baseball, hoping to convince MLB to establish a permanent franchise.
In 2025, the Athletics, a Major League Baseball team, began their home opener at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, marking their inaugural game in the area. This relocation is intended to last three years, providing a trial period for the city to demonstrate its potential for permanent Major League presence while the A's seek a permanent stadium in Las Vegas, scheduled for 2028. Local officials, such as Mike Testa from Visit Sacramento, express optimism, indicating this opportunity could help showcase the region's capability of sustaining a major league franchise. The competition for additional teams in Major League Baseball is strong, with cities like Portland, Salt Lake City, and Nashville considered as potential contenders. Sports economist Patrick Rische believes that filling stadiums, especially at higher price points, would send a strong message to league decision-makers regarding the financial viability of a Sacramento team. However, Rische notes that unless influential backing, such as that from Kings owner Vivek Ranadive, is present to invest in a new stadium, Sacramento's appeal may decline relative to other cities. Fans in Sacramento are excited about the opportunity to watch major league games live, especially after a 57-year history of the A's in Oakland ended unfavorably. With many local supporters eager for MLB, the presence of the A's provides a significant opportunity for community engagement with baseball. Many fans anticipate the team's presence will last longer than initially projected, despite the stated intention of relocating to Las Vegas by 2028. Overall, having the A's play in a minor league park does come with challenges as adjustments are necessary for both the team and visiting players. Positive local sentiment about the A's reflects a desire to embrace the team and seek the MLB's recognition. Sacramento's diverse offerings, including strong corporate sponsorship, festivities, and a new soccer stadium's construction help bolster the city's position in the conversation about a permanent franchise in the future.