In preparation for the Athletics’ temporary move to Sutter Health Park next season, Triple-A ballpark in West Sacramento will undergo upgrades to meet MLB standards. League commissioner Rob Manfred has revealed some of the planned improvements to ensure that Sacramento River Cats’ home field is ready to host big league games for years to come.
One of the key changes will be the construction of a separate building adjacent to the stadium, which will serve as the home clubhouse for the A’s. The visiting clubhouse is also being renovated, and new artificial turf will be installed. Upgrades to camera capability will ensure major-league quality broadcasts from Sacramento. Revenue-associated renovations like club seating and video boards within the stadium are also in progress to enhance the fan experience.
The A’s, in collaboration with Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadive, announced they will play at Sutter Health Park from 2025 through at least 2027. This temporary move comes after their Oakland Coliseum lease expires following the current 2024 MLB season. There is also an option for a fourth year in case the A’s proposed Las Vegas ballpark isn’t ready by the 2028 MLB season.
Despite excitement about MLB games coming to Sacramento, there are still significant challenges ahead before Sutter Health Park can become a permanent home for the Athletics. The MLBPA must sign off on Sutter Health Park meeting league standards before any big league games can be played there. However, Manfred’s comments on fan interest indicate that there is significant enthusiasm for big league games in the state’s capital.
