Athletics reach extension with Oakland Coliseum

Since 1968, the Oakland Athletics have been playing in one place. While that place has had many different names, the Athletics have been a part of the history of Oakland for a long time. While 46 years is a long time in one city and one ballpark, it will continue for years to come. 

The Athletics and the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum have agreed upon a ten-year lease agreement, Athletics owner Lew Wolff said today, keeping the Athletics in the ballpark through the 2025 season. The deal is subject to the approval of the Joint Powers Authority, which will vote on Friday. The city of Oakland and Alameda County Board of Supervisors also have to approve the deal.

The Athletics have wanted a new stadium for quite some time. However, the San Francisco Giants' territory runs through San Jose and Silicon Valley, a pinpointed location for a new ballpark. In his statement, MLB Commissioner Bud Selig did not address that issue, but does feel that the Coliseum is the best way to go.

"I continue to believe that the Athletics need a new facility and am fully supportive of the club's view that the best site in Oakland is the Coliseum site," Selig said. 

The Coliseum has had its share of issues over the past few years. It has had multiple sewage issues, including a power outage lights affecting the outfield lights against the New York Yankees on June 14.

The Athletics have been pushing toward a new facility. One proposed site for the Athletics' new home is near Oakland's popular Jack London Square. However, MLB rejected the option. Selig commented on the proposed move in his statement.

"Contrary to what some have suggested, the committee that has studied this issue did not determine that the Howard Terminal site was the best location for a new facility in Oakland."

The Athletics attendance has reflected poorly against their play. They have the best record in the major leagues, but have the 24th highest attendance, averaging just 23,462 fans per game. The Coliseum is the only stadium left in America that has both an NFL and an MLB team. It holds the Athletics, and the Oakland Raiders. The overused park has been an issue for some time, something both teams want to remove. The Raiders have been planing to build a new stadium as well.

The Athletics are staying at home. The 46 years the Athletics have spent at the Oakland Coliseum will continue to grow. While it may not be the most enjoyable for the fan, the Coliseum has seen some great moments in A's history, and will for at least ten more seasons. 

---