Report: MLBPA has ‘range of issues’ with A’s temporary relocation

Apr 5, 2024, 11:20 AM

Tony Clark, Executive Director of the MLBPA, looks on prior to Game One of the World Series between...

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 27: Tony Clark, Executive Director of MLB Players Association, looks on prior to Game One of the World Series between the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on October 27, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

BY JOSEPH JAROSZ

Former Editor

The Oakland A’s announced they’ll play in West Sacramento for at least three seasons. However, the team still has work to do with the Major League Baseball Players Association [MLBPA].

John Shea, of the San Francisco Chronicle, reported after Thursday’s temporary relocation announcement, a union spokesperson noted they will need to sign off on Sutter Health Park meeting appropriate standards.

“The MLBPA has had preliminary discussions with MLB about a range of issues related to the temporary relocation and we expect those discussions to continue,” the MLBPA union spokesperson told Shea, however, what those issues are was not specified.

MLBPA would need to sign off on A’s playing in a minor-league park in Sacramento. Union spokesperson tells me: “The MLBPA has had preliminary discussions with MLB about a range of issues related to the temporary relocation and we expect those discussions to continue.”

— John Shea (@JohnSheaHey) April 4, 2024

The home of the Sacramento River Cats, which Kings owner Vivek Ranadivé owns, recently went through multi-million dollar renovation, upgrading multiple areas of their facilities. A press release from the Sacramento Kings said “they will ensure that the ballpark will continue to be modified to meet MLB standards, including upgrading LED lighting and adding an additional clubhouse, among other items.”