Oakland Athletics’ move to Las Vegas expected to be approved by MLB owners this week: Sources

Major League Baseball’s relocation committee has a report on the proposed move of the Oakland Athletics to Las Vegas in the hands of all 30 club owners. The viability of the market is being questioned according to insiders, but the move is expected to be approved by the owners on Thursday. There is no perceived better alternative despite Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao’s assertion that the necessary funding can be found in Oakland.

Approval requires a 75 percent vote among owners, which means a group of only eight would be needed to block the move. However, there is no known coalition planning to stand in opposition. The report indicates that the success of the A’s in Las Vegas would largely depend on tourism. There are also questions about the potential TV revenue and local business support.

The A’s had the lowest payroll in the sport last season and are planning a $1.5 billion stadium in Las Vegas to open in 2028. The report did not provide exact revenue projections, but A’s revenues are projected to be higher in Las Vegas than in Oakland.

The move isn’t strictly finalized until deals are executed among the team, league and government entities, but a legal challenge from school teachers in Nevada poses a significant threat to relocation. The “Schools over Stadiums” political action committee, backed by the teachers’ union, aims to put $380 million in funding for the stadium to a vote in November 2024. A legal battle is ongoing in this regard, and further resistance is expected.

Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged that a successful legal challenge could disrupt the league’s plans. The disappearance of $380 million could significantly affect the A’s owner and MLB. A parallel attack plan by the teachers could further complicate the situation.

The owners are set to vote on the relocation on Thursday, but the report circulated among them doesn’t settle the question of where the A’s would play prior to the 2028 season. Their lease in Oakland expires after the 2024 season. The city and ownership have differing requirements if the A’s continue to play at the Oakland Coliseum until they move. On Thursday, Manfred will hold a news conference following the relocation vote. He is recommending the relocation be approved, and his executive council has voted in favor of the same, putting the matter in the hands of the 30 club “control people,” the lead owners.

Reference

David Rodriguez

David Rodriguez brings the excitement of Major League Baseball to readers. With a deep appreciation for America’s pastime, he covers the latest MLB news, scores, and player achievements, keeping fans up to date with their favorite teams and players.