A Wild Night in Las Vegas: The New Home of the Athletics

2 weeks ago 0

The Oakland Athletics are transitioning to a new home in Las Vegas. While their future stadium on The Strip is under construction, they played six games at Las Vegas Ballpark in Summerlin. This temporary venue is the home of the Las Vegas Aviators, a Triple-A team affiliated with the Texas Rangers.

Las Vegas Ballpark sits at over 3,000 feet above sea level, second only to Coors Field in Denver for elevation among Major League Baseball parks. The recent game between the Athletics and Brewers showcased the effect of this elevation with a high-scoring, action-packed outcome. Despite larger dimensions than an average MLB stadium, the game concluded at 15-14 after 12 innings. This score is rare, occurring only 18 times in MLB history since 1900 and only twice since 2000.

The excitement was not just about the final score. Both teams combined for 11 home runs, with the A’s hitting seven. Players Tyler Soderstrom and Nick Kurtz each hit two homers. The game saw 31 hits overall, 14 pitchers, and an astounding 441 pitches. It reached the peak moments when the Brewers scored four runs in the top of the 10th inning, only to have the Athletics match them in the bottom.

“Contreras stood up and clapped his glove, thinking it was the end of the game.” – Game observer’s reaction

Specific plays highlighted the impact of the elevation. Brewers catcher William Contreras hit a 463-foot home run, the second longest of the season, falling to his backside during its distance. Conversely, A’s catcher Jonah Heim hit what appeared to be a routine pop-up, yet it carried over the fence, defying expectations with an exit velocity of 94.6 mph. Statcast data revealed it would not be a home run in any other MLB park.

Las Vegas is shaping up to be an adjustment for the Athletics. As they prepare for their new stadium with similar dimensions to Las Vegas Ballpark, although at a slightly lower elevation of 2,300 feet, the ball flying out is expected. While a roof may mitigate some effects during hot seasons, intense scoring games might be frequent.

With a move planned for 2028, the team faces both opportunities and challenges. A’s hitters will be attractive in fantasy baseball leagues. However, the pitchers may face frustrations with higher elevations and anticipated slugfests.

Ian Miller reports on sports events at OutKick.