5 best moments in Oakland Athletics history as they bid farewell to the Coliseum
Thursday will be an emotional day for the Oakland Athletics and their fans as it will be the final time that they will be playing at Oakland Coliseum. As the result of an ongoing relocation process, the A's time in the City of Oakland will come to an end. After decades of memories, it will a bitter-sweet ending to Thursday's game against the Texas Rangers.
The Athletics first began playing in Oakland Coliseum in 1968, winning four World Series titles and also having a number of former stars be inducted into the Hall of Fame. On this historic day, it is worth taking a deep dive into the history of the Athletics during their time at the Coliseum.
Here's a look at the top 5 moments during the Oakland Athletics' tenure at the Coliseum
#5 - Josh Hamilton blunder seals AL West for A's
One of the most memorable moments in Oakland Athletics history had nothing to do with the exploits of one of their own players. In fact, it was Texas Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton who's costly error helped the A's clinch the division on the final day of the regular season.
On October 3, 2012, the division title race came down to the final day of the season, and thanks to an error by Hamilton on a routine play, the A's scored twice and eventually won the game. While this may not be the most Hall of Fame-worthy moment, given the gravity of the situation and the division title on the line, it is something that will live forever in the minds of Oakland Athletics fans.
#4 - Rickey Henderson shatters the all-time stolen base record
Rickey Henderson is the greatest base stealer of all time. On May 1, 1991, Henderson added his 939th stolen base to his resume, which happened to the be the one that surpassed the great Lou Brock for the all-time record. Henderson finished his career with 1,406 stolen bases.
#3 - Dallas Braden delivers emotional perfect game
Fan favorite Dallas Braden may never see his name called for Hall of Fame induction, however, for one night only, he was the best pitcher in the world. On Mother's Day in 2010, the southpaw delivered a perfect game against the Tampa Bay Rays.
What made the moment one of the most touching in modern MLB history is the fact that the Oakland Athletics starter shared a long hug with his grandmother, who helped raise him after his mother passed away.
#2 - Scott Hatteberg helps make history
This one centers around the epic re-creation in the hit film Moneyball. Scott Hatteberg immortalized himself forever in Oakland Athletics history in 2002.
Undoubtedly one of the biggest moments of Hatteberg's career, the catcher-turned-first baseman hit a walk-off home run to help the A's set a new American League record with 20 consecutive wins. How can you not be romantic about baseball?
#1 - Athletics secure third consecutive World Series
While some fans may have fond memories of watching their favorite players or specific plays, winning three straight World Series titles is beyond special. In 1974, the Oakland A's defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 5 to keep the dynasty alive. Thanks to the heroics of stars such as Joe Rudi and Vida Blue, the A's were able to keep the title in the Bay Area.
Even though three consecutive World Series titles is an impressive achievement on its own, the fact that the A's were able to do it in front of their home crowd at Oakland Coliseum cemented the team's legacy.