Full Breakdown
Athletics Play First Regular-Season MLB Games in Las Vegas Amid Relocation Plans
6/9/2026, 12:39:41 PM
Background
The Oakland Athletics announced a move to Southern Nevada in 2028, planning a stadium on the Tropicana site. While the ballpark is years away, the club has used Las Vegas Ballpark—home of its Triple-A Aviators—to host spring exhibitions and, for the first time since 1996, regular-season MLB games.
Six-Game Homestand
During the week of June 2026, the Athletics staged a six-game homestand at Las Vegas Ballpark: three games versus Milwaukee Brewers (Mon–Wed) and three versus Colorado Rockies (Fri–Sun). The A’s entered with a 31-34 record, 2.5 games behind the AL West leader.
Roster Moves
Third baseman Max Muncy returned from the injured list on Monday after a six-week recovery from a fractured fifth metacarpal; the Athletics optioned Darell Hernaiz to Triple-A Las Vegas. Muncy batted fifth and played third base in his first game back.
Data & Statistics
The Athletics (31-34) sit third in the AL West, 2.5 games back. The Brewers (40-23) are led by left-hander Kyle Harrison (7-1, 1.57 ERA, 73 K). Jeffrey Springs (3-6, 4.37 ERA, 60 K) will start. Max Muncy is .239/.308 with two homers, nine RBIs and two steals in 27 games; Darell Hernaiz is .237/.318 with one homer and seven RBIs in 47 games. Las Vegas Ballpark’s elevation and warm climate make it the second most hitter-friendly venue after Coors Field.
Key Personnel
Key personnel include manager Mark Kotsay, third baseman Max Muncy, Darell Hernaiz, pitcher Jeffrey Springs, and Brewers left-hander Kyle Harrison. Triple-A manager Fran Riordan is credited with player development; 2025 AL Rookie of the Year Nick Kurtz praised Muncy’s return.
Official Statements & Responses
The Athletics confirmed Muncy’s activation and Hernaiz’s reassignment before the Brewers series, saying the timing supports offensive consistency. The club also reiterated its 2028 relocation plan, noting Las Vegas games engage the future fan base while the new stadium is built.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Max had a pretty good rehab stint, hit a couple homers here in this last week,” — Mark Kotsay
- “We felt the timing was right. He’s healthy. Seems to be having consistent at-bats. His rhythm, timing was there, so we brought him back tonight.” — Mark Kotsay
- “Muncy’s awesome. He brings power, he brings energy,” — Nick Kurtz
- “Fran’s done an unbelievable job, his tenure has been very successful,” — Mark Kotsay
Why It Matters
The homestand previews the Athletics’ future market, tests the team’s playoff prospects, and showcases the Aviators’ development pipeline. The hitter-friendly ballpark also offers a gauge of player performance in conditions similar to the planned stadium.
What’s Next
The Athletics will finish the Las Vegas stint with a three-game series against the Colorado Rockies before resuming their road schedule. The club continues preparations for its 2028 relocation, noting stadium design and financing discussions ongoing.
