Athletics to Play at Sutter Health Park: Natural Grass Chosen for Safety Amidst Sacramento's Sweltering Summers
October 22, 2024The Oakland Athletics will temporarily relocate to Sacramento, playing home games at Sutter Health Park from 2025 to 2027 while their new stadium in Las Vegas is under construction.
Initially, MLB planned to install artificial turf, but concerns about extreme summer heat in Sacramento, which can reach up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit, led to the reconsideration.
A new clubhouse for the Athletics is under construction, featuring a locker room, weight room, and training room, alongside renovations to dugouts and bullpens.
Field surface consultant Murray Cook confirmed that a grass surface is viable for Sutter Health Park, which has had grass since its opening in 2000.
Cleveland manager Stephen Vogt expressed satisfaction with the decision to use natural grass, emphasizing the players' preference for grass surfaces.
In a collaborative decision with the MLB Players Association, MLB and the Athletics have opted for a natural grass field at Sutter Health Park, prioritizing player safety and comfort.
MLB plans to renovate Sutter Health Park's facilities, including clubhouses and dugouts, ahead of the 2025 season.
The Athletics will open their home schedule against the Chicago Cubs on March 31, 2025, marking a new chapter in their franchise history.
If the new ballpark in Las Vegas is not completed on time, the Athletics can extend their stay in Sacramento for an additional season.
This decision comes after the A's completed their last season in Oakland, signaling a significant transition for the team.
Sacramento experienced its hottest recorded 20-day stretch in June and July 2023, averaging 103.8 degrees, highlighting the importance of player safety in the decision-making process.
Sutter Health Park, home to the Sacramento River Cats, has a seating capacity of approximately 10,500 and will host the Athletics' games.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
AP News • Oct 21, 2024
A's temporary home in Sacramento will have grass instead of artificial turfESPN • Oct 21, 2024
Athletics' temporary ballpark will include natural grass - ESPNChannel 13 Las Vegas News KTNV • Oct 22, 2024
A's temporary home in Sacramento will have grass instead of artificial turf