When the team previously known as the Oakland Athletics revealed their decision to play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, a Triple-A stadium, for the 2025 season and beyond, it raised several concerns. One major issue was the location of the players’ clubhouses, situated beyond the center-field wall rather than behind the first- and third-base lines as is customary in MLB stadiums. Despite the A’s investing millions in renovations to upgrade the facilities, the unconventional placement remained a point of contention.
On a particular Saturday, these concerns came to a head during a game between the New York Mets and the A’s. Mets outfielder Jose Siri sustained an injury after fouling a pitch off his knee, prompting the need for him to be transported to the clubhouse for evaluation. However, the unique placement of the facilities in center field led to a comical scene as the Mets had to call for a cart to assist Siri, resulting in a delay as A’s employees manually pushed the cart through a gate in center field.
Despite the amusing spectacle, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza reassured reporters that Siri’s X-rays came back negative, indicating a minor contusion. The team would continue to monitor his knee before deciding on any further action.
It’s worth noting that the A’s are committed to playing at Sutter Health Park for at least three seasons, despite its smaller capacity compared to traditional MLB stadiums. The team’s choice to play there, with the support of the MLB league office, sets them apart from other teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, who are temporarily housed in larger venues.