Over the past six years, Las Vegas has become a hub for Major League Sports.
In 2017, the Golden Knights arrived, introducing Vegas to the National Hockey League.
In 2018, the city also received a Women’s Basketball team.
And of course, in 2022, Vegas finally became the home of an NFL team when the Raiders were traded to play at Allegiant Stadium.
But now, Vegas is preparing for the next best thing: A Major League Baseball Team!
The Oakland A’s have signed a purchase agreement with Las Vegas officials to build a ballpark.
Earlier that same week, it was announced that the Tropicana, one of the oldest casinos on the Strip, is set to be demolished to make way for the project.
The move comes after the City of Oakland failed to start production on a new stadium for their home team, who has been in Oakland since 1968.
The Raiders were also traded from Oakland after capacity issues arose.
Many Las Vegans are familiar with the buzz that a new sports team brings to the valley by now.
“I think it’s a great choice for them to come here,” says Coach Stewart, the Desert Oasis women’s basketball coach. “I would definitely go to see the new team, and I think the park will be pretty cool.”
The Athletics, who were founded in 1901 and originally played in Philadelphia, already have a widely established fan base.
With so many fans outside of Vegas, many are wondering whether there will be enough supporters in the city, and some are worried about their current 46-107 record.
The potential of a complete rebrand is possible in order to attract fans locally.
That means a new name, new players, and possibly a new logo.
Nevertheless, many people are excited about the attraction, regardless of their bias towards the Athletics.
“It was destined to happen,” says Desert Oasis Athletic Director Jim Dinkel.
Dinkel says that even though the A’s already have an established fan base, Vegas should have no trouble drawing in visitors.
“If you have the chance to go to Vegas to watch your team, you’re gonna go to Vegas and watch your team!”
The only thing confirmed at this point in time is the location of the new stadium, which has been purchased by the Bally Corporation.
While there are still many things up in the air, one thing is certain: The Athletics are set to play ball in Las Vegas by 2027!