Four Potential Relocation Sites for the Oakland A’s

Buffalo

Buffalo has a Major League history both in its past and future, but doesn’t have a team to show for.

The Queen City was one of the finalists for expansion in 1991, so much so that Shalen Field — then called Pilot Field — was built in anticipation for Buffalo’s first MLB team since 1915.

Instead, Major League Baseball commissioner Fay Vincent chose Colorado and Florida, now known as the Rockies and Marlins respectively.

Buffalo remains a top market for Triple-A baseball with the Bisons, but 2021 is a nice audition for the future.

With the Blue Jays moving to Buffalo last season, the Jays had a lot of good to say about their new home. But in 2021, fans will be allowed to attend. They’re currently allowing 24% capacity, but that could grow by season’s end. Solid ticket sales and continued interest in the league would go a long way to grab MLB’s attention for a long term future in Buffalo.

Another plus is the renovations the Blue Jays have made to the park on a permanent basis including re-sodding both the infield and outfield as well as moving the bullpen to behind the outfield wall.

Buffalo has a rabid fan base — especially Bills fans, aka Bills Mafia — but support for the NHL’s Sabres and NLL’s Bandits is also there. It might not be the biggest market, but there are fans and money to be made in Buffalo.