Oakland A’s Urged to Determine 2025 Home by Commissioner
The future home of the Oakland A’s has been a topic of much speculation and debate in recent months. With owner John Fisher planning to move the team to Las Vegas for the 2028 season, there is a sense of urgency to determine where the A’s will play from 2025 to 2027. Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the need for a decision to be made no later than this summer, as Major League Baseball (MLB) needs to finalize the schedule for the 2025 season.
Manfred, speaking after MLB’s owners meetings in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, acknowledged the challenges of scheduling and emphasized the importance of selecting a location in the West. While he did not disclose specific locations, sources familiar with the process have identified Salt Lake City, Utah, and Sacramento, California, as leading candidates.
The A’s decision on their future home will not only impact their stadium but also their TV revenue. If they were to remain in Oakland, they would be slated for an estimated $70 million in annual TV revenue. However, if they were to move, that money could disappear or be significantly reduced. Manfred highlighted the team’s efforts to explore all revenue streams and maximize their potential, particularly in terms of TV opportunities.
Despite the speculation surrounding Las Vegas as a potential new home for the A’s, the mayor of Las Vegas, Carolyn Goodman, expressed reservations about the move. In a podcast interview, she stated that it “doesn’t make sense.” However, Goodman later released a statement clarifying her position and expressing excitement about the prospect of Major League Baseball in Las Vegas. She also urged the ownership and government in Oakland to consider building a new ballpark on the water.
Manfred addressed Goodman’s comments and emphasized the support the A’s have received from officials in Las Vegas. While he did not offer his own opinion on the matter, he did express his disappointment if the A’s were to miss their target of opening a stadium in Las Vegas on Opening Day 2028.
The A’s face a critical decision in determining their home for the 2025-2027 seasons. As the clock ticks, the team must weigh various factors, including revenue potential and fan support. The eyes of MLB and its fans are eagerly watching to see where the A’s will ultimately call home.