The Oakland Athletics kicked off a new chapter in their storied history on Monday night, which marks the first-ever Major League Baseball game at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento.
The A’s, now calling the Sacramento area home, faced off against the Chicago Cubs in front of a sellout crowd of 12,119 fans. This ushers in a new era for the team as they transition away from Oakland.
For Athletics manager Mark Kotsay, the night was one of both excitement and adjustment. Thus, as he walked the field pre-game, inspecting the conditions after a morning rainstorm, he acknowledged the changes ahead.
“In terms of tonight and the energy that we’re going to feel from this crowd, it’s obviously going to be a new experience, which is exciting,” Kotsay said.
His team, already settled after the season opener in Seattle, was ready for their first game in a ballpark that would be their home for at least the next three years.
Despite the changes, the A’s fans didn’t skip a beat. Fans arrived early, chanting “Let’s Go Oakland!” as a tribute to their old home city.
The atmosphere was filled with energy, even as the A’s found themselves trailing in a tough 18-3 loss. But the real story of the night was the transition itself—the A’s may have left Oakland, but their fanbase remained as passionate as ever.
Before the game, the A’s paid tribute to late Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, wearing No. 24 jerseys and observing a moment of silence for Henderson, who passed away in December. His daughters threw out ceremonial first pitches, adding a sentimental touch to the historic evening.
Construction projects continued around the ballpark, with red, white, and blue banners lining the stadium, signifying the team’s new home. The game itself was notable for more than just the A’s performance.
The Cubs, also adjusting to the new venue, were an unexpected opponent in this historic game. Cubs first baseman Justin Turner remarked, “It’s a normal road trip, but it feels a little different. Opening here in Sacramento is something special.”
Though the A’s suffered a heavy defeat, the night marked an important milestone as the team adapts to its new surroundings.
The new stadium, built with a sophisticated drainage system to handle California’s scorching summers, will be a crucial asset as the A’s continue their relocation journey.
As the A’s and Cubs players took to the field, the mood was a mix of nostalgia and hope.
