A’s Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks New Era in Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS — In a spirited event on Monday morning, John Fisher, owner of the Oakland Athletics, declared, “We are Vegas’ team,” as the team commenced construction on a brand-new ballpark. The facility, which will hold 33,000 fans, is set to open its doors by the 2028 season, with a budget of $1.75 billion.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, local officials, as well as former Athletics players like Rollie Fingers and Dave Stewart, alongside enthusiastic Little Leaguers and fans. Nevada and Clark County are backing the project with up to $380 million in public funds.
Team president Marc Badain expressed confidence in completing the ballpark on time, emphasizing the local workforce’s readiness. “The next three years will bring jobs and excitement to the community,” he noted, referring to the construction process that kicks off immediately.
Badain has previous experience with major sports team relocations, having played an essential role in the NFL’s Raiders move from Oakland to Las Vegas in 2020 and in building Allegiant Stadium.
Unlike the Raiders, who maintained a strong connection with their Oakland fans even during their final games in the city, the A’s departure has stirred discontent among their supporters. The team concluded its last season in Oakland last year and is now temporarily playing an hour away in West Sacramento while awaiting their new Las Vegas home.
Fisher emphasized the importance of connecting with local youth. “If we can engage the kids, we can reach their parents too. Building a winning team takes time, just like building this stadium,” he remarked.
The stadium will occupy nine acres of a larger 35-acre site in Las Vegas, located at the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard. The area recently underwent a significant transformation, with the old Tropicana resort towers demolished to pave the way for the new facility.
As the team prepares for this transition, players are wearing patches that represent both Sacramento’s Tower Bridge and Las Vegas, showcasing their commitment to both cities.
The Las Vegas Stadium Authority has completed crucial steps for the A’s future, with artist renderings revealing a stadium design resembling Australia’s Sydney Opera House. The ballpark promises to offer unique features, such as air conditioning systems integrated into the seating.
Once completed, this venue will be the smallest in Major League Baseball but is expected to thrive in the vibrant market of Las Vegas, which already hosts the Raiders and other professional teams.
Commissioner Manfred expressed optimism about the A’s future in Las Vegas. “The demographics and the success of other sports here indicate that this is a perfect location for our team,” he stated confidently.
As the city rolls out the welcome mat for the A’s, it marks an exciting chapter for both the franchise and the community, promising to blend sports, culture, and collaboration in this growing city.
