"The saddest team in sports right now" - Fans make their feelings known as Oakland A's remove staple signage from the Coliseum
The Oakland Athletics’ impending departure from their long-time home took a symbolic turn when their famous "Rooted in Oakland since ’68" sign was taken down from the Coliseum on Monday. This act is a reminder that the A’s time in the city seems to be coming to an end.
The A’s chose the slogan "Rooted in Oakland" in 2017, which had been a source of pride for fans and a monument to a team that has been rooted in Oakland since they were first relocated from Kansas City in 1968, following a previous relocation from Philadelphia in 1954. The removal of this banner emphasizes the changes taking place, hinting at the team’s impending departure to Las Vegas. Fans have taken to social media to express their dissatisfaction with the team’s decision, which comes across as a premeditated attempt at sending a message.
"The saddest team in sports right now." - Posted a disappointed fan.
This comes after the success of the Fans’ Fest, an event put on by the Oakland 68’s, a die-hard fan group. However, the removal of the cherished sign just two days after the celebration raises questions and casts doubt on the team’s intentions.
Uncertainty surrounds the Oakland Athletics as they look for a temporary home before relocation.
The Oakland A’s are looking for a temporary home while they get ready to move to Las Vegas. They have been involved in discussions about extending their lease at the Oakland Coliseum for three more seasons, starting in 2025. The ambiguity surrounding the team’s future home has caused an emotional rollercoaster for supporters and the city of Oakland.
Fans and critics have claimed that this decision is a planned attempt to control expectations and keep fan enthusiasm in check, particularly given the large turnout at the 68’s event over the weekend.
"Fans deserve better." - Added another fan.
The story of the A’s relocation continues as they go through a transitional period, highlighted by the removal of a symbol associated with their Oakland identity, and the team’s relationship with its most loyal fans and the city has been stained. The story of baseball’s next relocation continues, which has left fans and the baseball community with mixed opinions and watching closely for the team’s (and fans’) next move.