Sutter Health Park prepares for double duty with upgrades for Athletics and River Cats

In West Sacramento, California, Sutter Health Park is undergoing significant renovations ahead of the shared season between the Oakland Athletics and the Sacramento River Cats in 2025. This new partnership marks a notable transition, as the Athletics will play their first season in this park after having spent 57 seasons in Oakland. To accommodate both teams, the park's seating capacity of around 14,000 will witness over 150 games played over the season, prompting the need for upgrade initiatives that enhance the field's durability and overall fan experience. Among the various improvements, the grass is receiving special attention to ensure its quality during the active playing season. Major League Baseball proposed the use of artificial turf with a hydration system; however, the decision was made to stick with natural grass due to player preference as well as the specific climate conditions in Sacramento. In particular, preparations have included implementing AirPAT technology designed to boost root oxygenation, manage moisture more effectively, and regulate subsurface temperatures, which can become extreme during the area’s summer heat. Furthermore, ground crews are now utilizing drones and sensor technology to gather real-time information regarding the condition of the turf, ensuring timely maintenance. In terms of facilities, the clubhouse has undergone substantial renovations prior to the Athletics’ move, expanding dining options and accommodating increased professional standards, including new female spaces. In addition, there is an improved weight room for visiting teams complete with large roll-up doors, enhancing the training experience. Digital upgrades throughout the park include the transformation of static signage to digital boards, allowing for dynamic content like live stats and instant replays on the scoreboard, greatly enriching the spectator experience. Given that both the Giants’ Triple-A affiliate and the newcomer Athletics will share the park, a contingency plan for grass maintenance has been solidified with the expertise of longtime head groundskeepers from both teams collaborating. The grounds crew's size has significantly increased to support the large volume of games and to ensure the field remains in top condition. While the games are expected to attract considerable attention, there is anticipation for the considerable operational challenges that maintaining a natural grass field will present. It’s a unique situation in the world of baseball to have such a large-scale collaboration between major and minor league teams, and this season's performance will surely be closely monitored for insights into this unprecedented arrangement.