Before becoming a renowned actor, Tom Hanks was a childhood fan of the Oakland A’s in the Bay Area. As the team is set to play their final game at the Oakland Coliseum and head to Sacramento and eventually Las Vegas, Hanks and other devoted fans have shared their favorite memories and the sadness they feel about saying goodbye. Notable supporters like Hanks, Damian Lillard, and Jim Harbaugh have expressed frustration, sadness, and a sense of loss for the Oakland community and the city’s once vibrant sports scene.
Hanks, along with others like Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa, expressed their disappointment and resentment over the relocation of the A’s. Hanks compared the Oakland A’s to other storied franchises such as the Cubs or Red Sox, saying they “could have/should have been” a Northern California equivalent. Likewise, La Russa, who began his career as an infielder for the A’s, mirrored these sentiments.
Rickey Henderson and Dave Stewart, both esteemed players in the franchise’s history, weighed in on the team’s departure to the “San Francisco Chronicle” in March. Despite their disappointment, they placed more blame on the city’s role rather than on A’s owner John Fisher. Speaking candidly, Dennis Eckersley said he feels particularly sad for the stadium workers he’s known for decades. Eckersley lamented the fact that his grandchildren, and countless other youngsters, will be unable to build their own memories at the Coliseum.
Musicians hailing from Oakland remained loyal to the A’s over the years. Billie Joe Armstrong, lead singer of Green Day, even went as far as denouncing the team’s owner, John Fisher, who decided to sell out the Oakland A’s to Las Vegas. Other artists like MC Hammer expressed their disappointment on social media. Amid the widespread mourning, the A’s bond with Black culture was highlighted, through such stars as Jackson, Henderson, and Bill North.
Past attempts to keep the A’s in Oakland were made by Oakland Representative Barbara Lee, who frequently communicated with A’s executives in Washington D.C. Despite her efforts, the A’s announced plans to relocate. Following this, Lee introduced a proposal for team owners to compensate the city they abandon. Understandably, she expressed her deep disappointment over losing the team.
Fans, celebrities and local figures alike are struggling with the A’s leaving Oakland. While some have vowed to continue supporting the team, others, like Tom Hanks, have damned the decision. Despite the distance, some fans are unable to sever their ties with the team they’ve known and loved. For many, the Coliseum has been the backdrop for countless memories and joyous moments. As it closes its doors for the final time, a sense of emptiness pervades among the A’s stalwart fans.
