Oakland Athletics Moving to Las Vegas in 2028

By Sarah Miller · April 11, 2054

The Oakland Athletics are the Major League Baseball team planning to relocate to Las Vegas, with a proposed move targeted for the 2028 season pending league approval and the construction of a new stadium.

Overview of the Oakland Athletics' Proposed Move to Las Vegas

The Oakland Athletics, one of MLB's most storied franchises, are on track to become the latest professional sports team to call Las Vegas home. After years of stalled efforts to redevelop or replace their aging RingCentral Coliseum in Oakland, California, the team has formally pursued relocation to Las Vegas. In November 2023, MLB owners unanimously approved the Athletics' application to explore this move, marking a pivotal moment in the franchise’s history.

This decision follows growing frustration over failed negotiations for a new ballpark in Oakland and increasing interest from Las Vegas, which has successfully attracted other major sports franchises like the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights and NFL’s Las Vegas Raiders.

Key Reasons Behind the Relocation Decision

Longstanding inability to secure public funding or political support for a new stadium in Oakland
Deteriorating attendance and outdated facilities at RingCentral Coliseum
Strong financial incentives and private investment offers in Las Vegas
Growing viability of Las Vegas as a major league sports market
Support from Major League Baseball leadership for expansion into new markets

Stadium Plans and Development Timeline

The Athletics aim to construct a state-of-the-art, retractable-roof ballpark adjacent to the Las Vegas Strip on the site of the former Tropicana Hotel. The proposed 30,000-seat venue is designed specifically for baseball and will feature modern amenities, premium seating, and climate-controlled comfort essential for the desert environment.

Project Milestones

2021: Initial feasibility studies begin; team conducts secret site visits
2023 (November): MLB approves relocation exploration
2024: Environmental assessments and design finalization
2025–2027: Expected construction phase
2028: Target opening season for new Las Vegas ballpark

Category	Details
Team	Oakland Athletics (proposed move)
Current Home	RingCentral Coliseum, Oakland, CA
Proposed New City	Las Vegas, NV
Target Start Season	2028
Stadium Capacity	~30,000
Stadium Location	Former Tropicana Las Vegas site
Estimated Construction Cost	$1.5 billion
Public Funding Contribution	$380 million (via Clark County)
Private Investment	$1.12 billion (team + partners)
MLB Approval Status	Exploration approved; final vote pending

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The financial structure of the proposed stadium reflects a significant shift in how MLB teams approach public-private partnerships. With over 75% of funding expected to come from private sources, the deal sets a precedent for future relocations. The $380 million in public funds from Clark County is contingent on voter approval and economic performance benchmarks post-construction.

Impact on Fans and the Local Community

The potential departure of the A’s leaves a void in Oakland, a city with deep baseball roots including three World Series championships during the team’s tenure. Longtime supporters argue that the team’s legacy and community engagement warrant stronger local retention efforts.

Conversely, Las Vegas stands to gain economically and culturally. Hosting an MLB franchise would enhance the city’s status as a full-fledged major league destination, complementing existing events like NFL games, college bowl games, and major concerts.

Potential Benefits for Las Vegas

Year-round tourism boost from spring training and regular-season games
New job creation in construction, hospitality, and operations
Increased media exposure and global visibility
Opportunities for youth baseball development programs
Enhanced appeal for corporate sponsorships and luxury suite sales

Challenges and Uncertainties Ahead

Despite momentum, several hurdles remain before the Athletics officially become a Las Vegas institution.

Final MLB Vote: Full relocation requires approval by 75% of team owners, expected no earlier than 2026.
Financing Risks: Economic downturns could affect private investment commitments.
Construction Delays: Nevada’s labor and supply chain constraints may impact timelines.
Fan Base Development: Building a loyal fan base in a transient city without a strong baseball tradition presents marketing challenges.
Environmental Concerns: Water usage and heat management in a desert climate require sustainable solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Athletics Moving to Las Vegas

What baseball team is moving to Las Vegas?

The Oakland Athletics are the Major League Baseball team planning to relocate to Las Vegas, pending final approvals and stadium completion, with a target start date of the 2028 season.

Will the Oakland A’s really leave Oakland?

While not yet finalized, the likelihood is high. The team has secured MLB approval to pursue relocation, and no viable stadium alternative currently exists in Oakland. The move hinges on stadium financing and construction progress.

When will the Las Vegas baseball stadium be ready?

The new 30,000-seat ballpark is projected to open in time for the 2028 MLB season, assuming construction begins in 2025 following environmental reviews and permitting.

Who is paying for the new Las Vegas MLB stadium?

The $1.5 billion project is funded primarily through private investment ($1.12 billion), with $380 million in public funding approved by Clark County, subject to voter ratification and performance conditions.

What will the Las Vegas MLB team be called?

No official name change has been announced. While the team may rebrand upon relocation, it is expected to retain “Athletics” or adopt a variation such as “Las Vegas Athletics” initially.