In this episode, we dive into the uncertain future of the Oakland A’s with Matt George, host of Locked on Kings, ABC 10 Sacramento sports anchor, and lifelong A’s fan. With the team’s potential relocation, the Sacramento community is buzzing with questions about what a move might mean for fans and the city. Matt shares his insights on everything from ticket affordability and fan accessibility at Sutter Health Ballpark to the real, behind-the-scenes temperature in Sacramento when it comes to welcoming baseball. Are locals truly ready for an A’s move, or is this a temporary fix with Las Vegas still looming?

We also break down the mixed messages around the A's relocation. Some days, it seems a Vegas move is imminent, while others suggest Sacramento could become a more permanent home. Can a city like Sacramento sustain a Major League Baseball team, and would current ownership even consider selling if things with Vegas fall through? Join us as we get to the heart of the city’s response, the fan outlook, and what it could take to make the A’s a Sacramento mainstay.

In today's episode of Locked On A's, host Bunni explores a potential shake-up in the Athletics roster, focusing on whether outfielder JJ Bleday might be on the trade block. With the Athletics organization recently dropping "Oakland" from their name, Bunni dives into the implications for the team and its fans across Oakland, Sacramento, and Las Vegas. The discussion also touches on the A's free agency struggles, as former MLB pitcher Scott Feldman shares insights on the challenges players might face signing with the A's, given their uncertain home stadium situation. GM David Forst’s decision to focus on trades rather than free-agent signings hints at a strategic shift for the A's, one aimed at team improvement over prospect development.

Bunni breaks down Bleday's current trade potential, highlighting his solid stats, team control for another four years, and his overall value as a former top draft pick. With other young prospects on the rise, including Colby Thomas and Denzel Clarke, the Athletics may consider shifting Bleday to open up outfield spots or pursue upgrades in other areas like third base or starting pitching. Bunni even suggests possible trade fits, like Brett Baty of the Mets or Alec Bohm of the Phillies, to fill gaps in the A's roster. The episode wraps up with a look at Nick Kurtz and other promising farm system prospects, hinting at a potentially bright future for the team despite its current identity struggles.

PART 2 - THE A’S MIGRATION: Loyalty, Legacy, and the Las Vegas Leap

This episode of Locked On A’s is Part 2 of the ongoing saga of the Oakland A’s potential relocation, a journey that’s stirred intense debates and emotional responses from fans, especially in the East Bay. Host Bunni, a Bay Area native and lifelong A’s fan, is joined by Kevin Peters, a fellow East Oakland native, who brings a passionate perspective on what the team represents to its community. Together, they explore the highs and lows of A's history, including the influential Moneyball era, and analyze the potential impact of the A's relocation to Las Vegas. Kevin reflects on the cultural and historical significance of the A’s, describing the team as embodying the grit and blue-collar ethos of the East Bay, while lamenting the lack of support from leadership.

The conversation goes beyond baseball, delving into the team’s role in the Bay Area’s sports landscape and the potential ramifications of its departure on the community. Kevin shares personal stories, such as playing Little League baseball near the A's stadium, where the sounds of the game would filter in, creating a unique atmosphere for young fans. Through his and Bunni’s insights, listeners are reminded of the A's legacy and how the team has resonated with its fans on a deeply personal level. As the episode concludes, Bunni encourages fans to keep up with Locked On A’s daily for continued updates on the team's journey, as well as broader MLB coverage.