Sep 24, 2023; Oakland, California, USA; A general view of third base at Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum before the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Oakland Athletics. Mandatory Credit: Robert Edwards-USA TODAY Sports Robert Edwards/USA TODAY Sports

Dodgers Analyst Dontrelle Willis ‘Never Thought’ Oakland A’s Would Move

Originally posted on Dodger Blue | By Scott Geirman | Last updated 4/8/24

The Oakland Athletics announced plans to play their home games at Sutter Health Park from 2025 through 2027, with the possibility they could stay at the Minor League stadium through the 2028 season.

That comes following an initial announcement that the A’s are moving to Las Vegas in 2028 or 2029.

Current Los Angeles Dodgers analyst Dontrelle Willis was born in Oakland and grew up in Alameda, Calif. Willis voiced his initial displeasure with the move this past November, as he was fond of the A’s as a kid.

Willis once again posted on social media to express the move is something he never envisioned.

I just never thought the A’s wouldn’t be in Oakland in my lifetime

— Dontrelle Willis (@DTrainMLB) April 4, 2024

Willis played nine seasons in Major League Baseball, having one of the more memorable peak years for the Florida Marlins in 2005.

In his one start in Oakland during the 2008 season, Willis tossed four shutout innings, allowing two hits and walking five.

The last A’s home game in Oakland is scheduled for Sept. 29, 2024.

Oakland A’s owner explains playing in Sacramento

Oakland A’s owner and managing partner John Fisher has been at the front of the controversy and tension between the city, fans and MLB. He delivered remarks with the planned move to Sacramento, in the interim until further plans come into play.

“We explored several locations for a temporary home, including the Oakland Coliseum. Even with the long-standing relationship and good intentions on all sides in the negotiations with Oakland, the conditions to achieve an agreement seemed out of reach,” Fisher said in a statement.

“We understand the disappointment this news brings to our fans, as this season marks our final one in Oakland. Throughout this season, we will honor and celebrate our time in Oakland, and will share additional details soon. We extend our appreciation to the Kings and the City of West Sacramento, and look forward to making Sutter Health Park our home until our new ballpark opens in Las Vegas.”

This article first appeared on Dodger Blue and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: