The Athletics' journey began in 1901 as one of the founding teams of the American League, originally located in Philadelphia. The team was initially owned by Connie Mack, who not only managed the team but also led them to five World Series titles (1910, 1911, 1913, 1929, 1930). Under Mack's leadership, the A's became a powerhouse early on, setting a standard of excellence with some of the game’s greatest players like Jimmie Foxx and Lefty Grove.

​​The Birth of the A's and Ownership History
​The Oakland Athletics (A's) have a storied and complex history in Major League Baseball (MLB), filled with triumphs, challenges, and numerous transitions. From their origins in Philadelphia, to a memorable period in Kansas City, and ultimately, their iconic time in Oakland, the A's have made an indelible mark on the baseball world. As the team prepares to leave Oakland following the 2024 season, it’s the perfect time to reflect on their rich legacy, incredible owners, championship moments, and the uncertain road ahead.
​
​However, financial struggles led to the sale of the team, and in 1954, the Athletics moved to Kansas City under the ownership of Arnold Johnson, marking the first of several relocations. After years of mediocrity, the A's were sold again in 1960 to Charlie O. Finley, a businessman known for his eccentric personality and willingness to shake up the traditional baseball world. Finley is credited with moving the team to Oakland in 1968, believing the Bay Area offered better financial opportunities and a stronger fanbase than Kansas City.

The Oakland Glory Years: Championships and Legendary Players
The move to Oakland proved fortuitous for the A's. Under Finley's ownership, the A's experienced their greatest period of success in the early 1970s. Between 1972 and 1974, the Oakland A’s won three consecutive World Series championships, becoming one of the most dominant teams of the era. Managed by Dick Williams and later Alvin Dark, the A’s featured stars like Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter, Vida Blue, and Rollie Fingers, all of whom left an indelible mark on baseball history.

The A's remained competitive into the late '80s and early '90s, fueled by the ownership of the Haas family, who purchased the team in 1980. Under Walter A. Haas Jr., the A's found sustained success, winning the 1989 World Series by sweeping the San Francisco Giants in a series that was famously interrupted by the Loma Prieta earthquake. The team during this period was led by Mark McGwire, Jose Canseco, and manager Tony La Russa. The A’s became known as the “Bash Brothers,” a powerhouse offense paired with a strong pitching rotation featuring Dave Stewart and Dennis Eckersley.

Moneyball Era and Modern Challenges
In the 2000s, the A's became synonymous with the “Moneyball” approach, thanks to Billy Beane, the team's general manager, and owner Steve Schott. With a smaller payroll than many rivals, Beane revolutionized baseball by using advanced statistical analysis to build competitive teams. This strategy was famously chronicled in Michael Lewis’ book Moneyball and the subsequent Hollywood film. Although the A's didn’t win a World Series during this era, they consistently made the playoffs with players like Tim Hudson, Barry Zito, and Eric Chavez leading the way.

Leaving Oakland: Why the A’s Are Moving
Despite their rich history in Oakland, the team has faced challenges in recent decades, particularly regarding their stadium, the Oakland Coliseum. Built in 1966, the Coliseum is one of the oldest stadiums in MLB, and despite numerous attempts, the team was unable to secure a new ballpark in the Bay Area. Ownership under John Fisher has faced criticism for not investing enough in the team or stadium infrastructure. With attendance numbers dwindling and financial concerns mounting, the A’s announced in 2023 that they would be relocating to Las Vegas for the 2025 season.

The A's move to Las Vegas marks a major turning point for the franchise, ending a more than 50-year chapter in Oakland. In 2025, they will likely be renamed the Las Vegas Athletics, joining a growing sports market in Nevada that includes the Raiders (also formerly of Oakland) and the NHL's Golden Knights.

Memorable Moments and Records in A's History
​Over the years, the A's have provided countless memorable moments for their fans. Some standout achievements include:

What’s Next for the A’s?
While the future of the team remains uncertain in terms of its roster and performance, one thing is clear: the history and legacy of the Oakland Athletics will never be forgotten. From their dominance in the 1970s to their innovative Moneyball era, the A's have left an indelible mark on Major League Baseball. Fans will now watch as the Athletics begin a new chapter starting in 2025, ready to build on their incredible legacy.
​
​As for the A's official move to Las Vegas, while it is confirmed that the team will relocate there, they are expected to officially become the Las Vegas Athletics in 2028 once their new stadium is completed. The team has already been involved in ongoing negotiations with the Las Vegas Stadium Authority regarding the finer details of their future home​
​
​Sutter Health Park, with a seating capacity of around 14,000, will undergo renovations to meet MLB standards. However, this move has raised concerns among players and fans alike, particularly regarding the use of artificial turf, which is set to be installed before the 2025 season​.
​
​In 2025, the Athletics will not begin their Las Vegas chapter immediately but will instead play their home games at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento. This minor league stadium, home to the Triple-A Sacramento River Cats, will host the A's for the 2025-2027 seasons while their new ballpark in Las Vegas is being constructed. The decision was made due to delays in the construction of the Las Vegas stadium, which isn't expected to be ready until 2028​
​
​As the A's leave Oakland, fans are left wondering what lies ahead for the franchise. Moving to Las Vegas offers the team a fresh start in a state-of-the-art stadium and access to a vibrant sports market, but it also marks the end of an era for a team that has been an integral part of Oakland’s identity for over five decades.