Oakland A’s ownership to heading to Portland

The Oakland A’s ballpark situation is anything but settled. While the team is publicly saying that they are optimistic that they will remain in Oakland, they have also scheduled a trek to Las Vegas to check out various potential locations for a new ballpark. That stated optimism can only go so far.

A’s ownership is not stopping with their trek to Las Vegas. According to reports, ownership will also be visiting Portland as part of a fact finding mission for their relocation plans.

Oakland A’s turning their eyes towards Portland

Portland has been eyeing a major league team for some time. The Portland Diamond Project has been looking to bring a team to Oregon, either as an expansion franchise or in relocation. And they can give the A’s what they have been wanting – a waterfront ballpark with the infrastructure they desire.

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This meeting has been a long time coming. Just as the A’s have been in contact with officials in Las Vegas over the past few years, they have been discussing a potential move to Portland. Their frustration with the Oakland City Council is palpable, especially after two decades of attempting to get a new stadium.

It remains to be seen how serious the A’s are in regards to relocating. This could all be a bluff, their attempt to force the City of Oakland to finally do something about their stadium situation. But the fact that ownership has been having these discussions with both Las Vegas and Portland would seem to indicate a willingness to move.

In the end, none of this could matter. The Oakland City Council could approve the A’s ballpark plans, and the Howard Terminal Project could come to fruition. However, for the A’s, it makes sense to explore other options, whether they are in Las Vegas, Portland, or somewhere else.

Oakland A’s ownership is set to take a fact finding trek to Portland next month. They are covering all their bases if relocation becomes a reality.