OAKLAND, Calif. (AP) — Mark Kotsay approached this moment, this significant day, as if it were the World Series, an experience he has yet to enjoy as either a player or a manager.
On a beautifully clear September afternoon, a crowd of 46,889 filled the seats to witness the Oakland Athletics say an emotional goodbye to the Coliseum, their home since 1968, complete with its unique character, such as plumbing issues and the notorious “rally possums” — not to mention the stray cats that inspired Hall of Famer Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation.
The A’s clinched a 3-2 victory over the Texas Rangers, and afterward, Kotsay took the microphone to express heartfelt gratitude to everyone in attendance. He led the crowd in a final chant of “Let’s go Oakland!” Meanwhile, third baseman Max Schuemann ran around the field brandishing a large A’s flag, stopping to wave to various sections of the enthusiastic crowd.
“I’ve never experienced the World Series,” Kotsay reflected. “But today felt like one of those monumental moments where you can truly feel the emotion surrounding it. Arriving at the stadium today and seeing the packed parking lot, feeling the energy and passion — it’s a memory I will cherish forever.”
Longtime fans and young supporters alike skipped work or school to attend the matinee event, marking the end of an era for the A’s, as they join the NFL’s Raiders and the Golden State Warriors in departing from Oakland.
In an unexpected moment of excitement, Schuemann dashed off with the flag moments after mascot Stomper had held it, expressing his desire to celebrate with the fans.
Prior to the ceremony, the field began to be dismantled as home plate was unearthed and the mound rubber was removed. Head groundskeeper Clay Wood’s dog, Reba, took one last joyful run across the outfield to greet her owner beyond the fence.
In a poignant request, Kotsay asked for three bases to take home after they were replaced every inning, with Clay Wood receiving the first base as a keepsake, reflecting the sentimental value of the day.
This stadium has been a witness to many glorious moments — from Kotsay’s early days in the outfield to the memorable 1989 World Series that was interrupted by an earthquake. It has seen legends like the Bash Brothers, Jose Canseco and Mark McGwire, along with cherished memories from the infamous 20-game winning streak in 2002, and the Big Three pitching aces, Tim Hudson, Mark Mulder, and Barry Zito. Later, “I Believe in Stephen Vogt” became a rallying cry for the fans.
As the day progressed, former pitcher Barry Zito received a warm reception as he sang the national anthem, while other legends like Rickey Henderson and Dave Stewart honored the occasion by tossing out ceremonial first pitches.
Just outside the A’s dugout, grounds crew member Kelly Mattson allowed admirers to scoop dirt from his shovel, giving fans a tangible memento of their beloved stadium’s history.
Earlier in the day, A’s bullpen catcher Dustin Hughes and his father, an Oakland scout, shared quality time playing catch in left field before hiking up to Mount Davis and exploring hidden corners of the scoreboard and the stands.
Fans flooded the concourse over the past few days, capturing photos and videos of memories that showcased decades of baseball history. The parking lots filled up before early morning, with tailgaters relishing their last chance to enjoy the atmosphere of the Coliseum.
Among the attendees was former fan favorite Marcus Semien, now with the Rangers, who anticipated having 10 to 15 family members in the stands to share in the emotional farewell. “Thank you to all the security guards and concession workers who made this stadium unique,” Semien acknowledged. “As an East Bay kid, I really appreciate the warmth I received here. I feel for those who won’t be able to continue in Oakland, but keep pushing forward.”
Bruce Bochy, a former catcher and current manager, felt nostalgic as he took in the significance of the day. “It’s a big day, a memorable one for many,” he said, noting his love for the Coliseum. “It’s beginning to hit me that baseball will no longer be played here, and that’s a bit sad.”
Kotsay emphasized the importance of the moment. “Today will go by quickly, and I wanted to seize every chance to show my gratitude to the fans and the workers who represent everything this stadium stands for. Many have dedicated their lives to this organization, this stadium, and the game of baseball. The genuine love for baseball, even more than the game itself, has forged countless relationships over the last 57 years.”
Even his players recognized the significance of bidding farewell. “What’s unique here is the simplicity,” slugger Brent Rooker remarked. “Many stadiums focus more on entertainment than on the game itself. The Coliseum offers something different; it’s all about the baseball.”
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