Oakland Athletics fans have launched fervent, albeit potentially belated, attempts to prevent the team's relocation to Las Vegas. A recent "reverse boycott" saw over 27,000 fans pack the stadium, a stark contrast to the A's typical sub-10,000 attendance this season. However, MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred suggests these efforts are insufficient and places the blame squarely on the city of Oakland.

While expressing sympathy for Oakland fans, Manfred maintains that a single night of robust attendance cannot undo "a decade worth of inaction." He reiterated his earlier statements expressing regret over the potential move and emphasizing the league's efforts to find a solution in Oakland. However, he pointedly noted the absence of a concrete stadium plan from the city.

Oakland Athletics fans display signs during a reverse boycott game against the Tampa Bay Rays at RingCentral Coliseum on June 13, 2023, in Oakland, California. (Brandon Vallance/Getty Images)

Manfred's stance mirrors his previous comments where he stated his dislike for the relocation outcome, acknowledging fans' disappointment. He questioned Oakland's commitment, highlighting the lack of a tangible stadium proposal. "There is no Oakland offer," Manfred stated, stressing the need for community support and a viable plan.

Oakland city officials have refuted Manfred's claims, labeling them "false" and asserting the existence of a concrete proposal. Mayor Shen Thao emphasized the city's efforts to secure funding, conduct environmental reviews, and work with other agencies for approvals. She contrasted the A's ambitious multibillion-dollar, 55-acre project proposal in Oakland with their apparent acceptance of a smaller, leased ballpark in Las Vegas, suggesting a double standard.

The game between the Oakland Athletics and the Cincinnati Reds at RingCentral Coliseum on April 30, 2023, in Oakland, California. (Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)

As the MLB embarks on the approval process for the A's move to Las Vegas, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo recently signed legislation for $380 million in public funding for a new ballpark on the Las Vegas Strip. The proposed $1.5 billion, 30,000-seat stadium with a retractable roof would be located near Allegiant Stadium and T-Mobile Arena. Meanwhile, the A's, holding the worst record in the major leagues, are on pace for a historically poor season, aiming to complete the move to Vegas by 2027.

Oakland Athletics fans are handed out free t-shirt shirts labeled "SELL" prior to a reverse-boycott game against the Tampa Bay Rays at RingCentral Coliseum on June 13, 2023, in Oakland, California. (Brandon Vallance/Getty Images)