Full Breakdown
Sacramento's Bid for Major League Baseball Expansion
10/21/2025, 2:10:04 PM
Sacramento's Official Campaign for MLB Expansion
Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty has formally announced a campaign to position the Sacramento region as a candidate for Major League Baseball (MLB) expansion. During his State of the City address, McCarty emphasized the city's readiness for an MLB team, stating, “We really (have a) chance to keep baseball here forever in Sacramento.” This initiative comes as MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred aims to identify two new expansion markets by 2029, with Sacramento competing against cities like Salt Lake City and Portland.
Current Landscape and Challenges
The Oakland Athletics are currently playing temporarily at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, with plans to relocate to Las Vegas by 2028. McCarty and West Sacramento Mayor Martha Guerrero are collaborating to attract corporate sponsorships and bolster public support for the A's, who struggled with attendance, averaging just 9,487 fans per game in a stadium with a capacity of approximately 13,800. Guerrero noted that increasing attendance is crucial for building sponsorships and demonstrating the region's commitment to MLB.
Infrastructure and Ownership Considerations
While McCarty has indicated that a new stadium would be necessary for a successful bid, specific plans for ownership or stadium location remain unconfirmed. Salt Lake City has already secured an ownership group and earmarked $900 million for a new ballpark, while Portland has a signed agreement for a stadium site. McCarty mentioned that a new stadium could potentially be built on the current footprint of Sutter Health Park or in the surrounding area, with West Sacramento being the most likely location.
Economic Implications of MLB Expansion
The Sacramento metropolitan area, which includes Stockton and Modesto, ranks as the 20th-largest media market in the U.S. Despite the A's poor attendance, the region's existing sports culture, highlighted by the Sacramento Kings' popularity, suggests potential for a successful MLB franchise. McCarty believes that securing an MLB team would significantly enhance the local economy, stating, “This will help grow our economy and bring more business to the city of Sacramento.”
Criticism and Competition
Despite the enthusiasm, Sacramento faces significant competition from other cities with more established plans. Both Portland and Salt Lake City have organized campaigns, including the Portland Diamond Project and Big League Utah, which have already developed stadium renderings and secured potential ownership. Critics argue that Sacramento's lack of a concrete ownership group and stadium plan puts it at a disadvantage.
Official Statements and Future Outlook
McCarty remains optimistic about Sacramento's chances, urging local residents to support the A's to demonstrate the city's viability for MLB. He stated, “We’re trying to just reiterate that we’re MLB ready.” As the MLB collective bargaining agreement approaches expiration in 2026, the timing of Sacramento's campaign could align with the league's decision-making process regarding expansion.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We really are in a chance to keep baseball here forever in Sacramento,” — Kevin McCarty, Mayor of Sacramento
- “What do we have that no one else has? A team here today,” — Kevin McCarty, Mayor of Sacramento
- “This is a real opportunity for us.” — Kevin McCarty, Mayor of Sacramento
- “It’s good for our economic development. We want to build on where we started.” — Martha Guerrero, Mayor of West Sacramento
Sacramento's pursuit of an MLB team reflects broader ambitions to enhance its economic landscape while addressing local challenges. The coming years will be critical in determining whether the city can overcome its current hurdles and secure a permanent place in Major League Baseball.
