A group of dedicated Oakland fans establish the Oakland Ballers, a new baseball team, after the Oakland Athletics announce their move to Las Vegas.
In the wake of the Oakland Athletics’ unanimous decision to relocate to Las Vegas, a group of passionate Oakland fans have taken matters into their own hands. Led by high school friends Paul Freedman and Bryan Carmel, the Oakland Ballers, also known as the B’s, have emerged as a beacon of hope for East Bay sports enthusiasts. This independent team, set to play in the Pioneer League starting this summer, aims to fill the void left by the departure of the A’s and provide a source of pride for the community.
A Team Born Out of Passion
Freedman and Carmel’s inspiration for the Oakland Ballers came from a desire to ensure that professional baseball remained in the East Bay. Frustrated by the loss of the A’s, they wanted to take action and establish a team that would start playing as early as 2024. The duo felt that the heartbreak experienced by East Bay sports fans needed to be addressed, and the creation of the Ballers was their way of showing that Oakland is indeed a pro sports town.
A Commitment to the Community
The Oakland Ballers ownership group has already raised $2 million to fund operations and expand seating at Laney College, where the team will play. This investment demonstrates their commitment to providing an exceptional fan experience and ensuring that the team becomes an integral part of the community. By involving local fan groups, such as the Oakland 68s, in the decision-making process, the Ballers have gained widespread support and a sense of unity.
Pioneer League Partnership
Joining the independent Pioneer League, the Ballers will be part of a 10-team league that stretches across Montana, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. Although no longer affiliated with major league teams, the Pioneer League is one of four MLB partner leagues, allowing for collaboration and the implementation of innovative ideas. The league’s adoption of a home run derby-style “knockout round” in place of extra innings exemplifies its commitment to enhancing the fan experience.
The Coaching Staff and Player Roster
The Ballers have made strategic hires to ensure the success of their team. Former Seattle Mariners manager Don Wakamatsu, an East Bay native, has been appointed as the executive vice president of baseball operations. Wakamatsu’s experience and expertise will be invaluable in shaping the team’s direction. Micah Franklin, a former St. Louis outfielder and minor league coach, will serve as the team’s manager. The Ballers’ roster will consist of players who were previously in affiliated baseball or who were not selected in the MLB draft.
The Name and Identity
The choice of the name “B’s” pays homage to the A’s while also representing the founders’ personal connection to being on the “B team” during their high school days. Additionally, the name “Ballers” honors the memory of their late friend Bobby Winslow, who often referred to himself as a baller. The combination of both names reflects the team’s commitment to embracing its own identity while maintaining a connection to Oakland’s rich baseball tradition.
Conclusion: The establishment of the Oakland Ballers represents a remarkable display of resilience and determination by a group of dedicated fans. As the A’s prepare to leave for Las Vegas, the Ballers aim to fill the void and provide the East Bay with a team they can rally behind. With strong community support, a committed ownership group, and a talented coaching staff, the Ballers have the potential to become a beloved institution in Oakland. Their story serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the city and the unwavering passion of its sports fans.
Leave a Reply