Can Sacramento Keep Major League Baseball? A Look at the A’s First Season
The Arrival of the A’s in Sacramento
The Sacramento region is at an interesting crossroads as it embraces its new Major League Baseball team, formerly known as the Oakland Athletics. There is a collective hope that MLB can establish a lasting presence in Sacramento, but this requires a solid financial foundation and community support.
However, the initial excitement of the A’s relocation has been tempered by a lackluster performance on the field, leading to a waning enthusiasm among residents. The team made a splash upon arrival, yet the early season results have not inspired confidence.
The Role of City Leadership
With the stakes high, there is a palpable need for local leaders to energize the community around the team. Kevin McCarty, Sacramento’s new mayor, along with the city council, has a pivotal role in rallying public support. Former mayor Darrel Steinberg had earned acclaim for advocating growth and community investment, a model that McCarty could emulate.
Despite the modest political power typical of a mayor’s office, McCarty’s ability to mobilize public enthusiasm for the A’s could have significant impact. His background as a sports enthusiast, from leading the Assembly Democrats’ softball team to advocating for safer youth sports, positions him uniquely to engage with local baseball fans.
Rallying Community Support
Citizens of Sacramento have historically demonstrated their desire for major sports presence, having once successfully lobbied to keep the NBA in the area. The city’s attempt to attract an MLS team was thwarted when proposed ownership faltered, underscoring the precarious nature of major league franchises. Currently, local baseball fans hope to avoid a similar fate with the A’s.
Despite being housed in a minor league park with a seating capacity of 13,416, not all games following the Mar 31 home opener have sold out, even with reduced ticket prices. This indicates a pressing need for increased community backing if the team is to thrive in Sacramento.
The Future of Baseball in Sacramento
The A’s season has commenced amid a chaotic backdrop, raising questions about their long-term establishment in the city. While there are murmurs of a potential move to Las Vegas in 2028, Sacramento still has an opportunity to prove itself as a viable market for Major League Baseball.
The possibility of MLB expanding by 2029 could present Sacramento with an opportunity to secure its own franchise, contingent on the A’s performance this season. Therefore, it is crucial for city leaders to actively support the team, despite the current uncertainty regarding the A’s name and future.
Call to Action for Local Officials
City officials play a critical role in shaping public perception and engagement. Engaging in visible, supportive actions—like throwing out the first pitch or attending games with constituents—could demonstrate commitment and inspire community enthusiasm. The currently low public visibility of city officials concerning the A’s is noteworthy and could be a missed opportunity for rallying support.
As the new mayor, McCarty faces the dual challenge of establishing his leadership style while also guiding Sacramento’s relationship with the A’s. By prioritizing community engagement and demonstrating that Sacramento is more than a temporary home for the A’s, there is great potential to foster a lasting baseball presence in the city.