A’s cherishing final memories in Oakland, at ‘special’ Coliseum originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
OAKLAND — The never-ending Bay Area funeral for the Athletics is taking its toll on you, but you’re not alone.
The Coliseum’s final professional ball club also is mourning.
“It’s definitely emotional,” A’s rookie catcher Kyle McCann told NBC Sports California on Wednesday. “It’s always going to be a special place to me. I won’t be able to play here [again], where I made my debut; I think that’s what really does it for me. This is where I made my introduction to Major League Baseball.”
The 26-year-old is a game away from wrapping up what will be his first and last season in Oakland. McCann, from Atlanta, grew used to the town. Now, he and his team are about to skip it.
“We’re going to miss the weather, being in Sacramento,” McCann added. The [Coliseum’s] so unique. The fans are awesome, man. I just think this is home for us. So to leave, it’s kind of tough.”
He isn’t alone by any means, as fellow A’s rookie and shortstop Jacob Wilson feels the same way.
Wilson, who might have delivered the last walk-off hit in Coliseum history in Tuesday’s 5-4 win over the Texas Rangers, has played in just 12 home games during the 2024 MLB season. He was selected No. 6 overall by the A’s in the 2023 MLB Draft and rose rapidly through the organization’s minor-league system to the No. 1 overall prospect.
But Wilson will miss playing at the Coliseum, similar to someone who has spent a storied career there.
“We’re just kinda going out there and really [trying] to enjoy the moment,” Wilson told NBC Sports California. “Just the atmosphere … when we get full people in the stands, [it’s] pretty electric to look up and see them all on their feet chanting. It’s been pretty special to be part of it.”
And as for living in the East Bay?
“It’s been pretty awesome to live over there for these past couple of months,” Wilson, 22, added. Obviously, you know, you’ll definitely miss that spot for sure.”
Then, there is left-fielder Tyler Nevin.
The 27-year-old has struggled to find his footing since he was selected No. 38 overall by the Colorado Rockies in 2015; however, Nevin found stability in Oakland this year.
With four games left on the A’s 2024 schedule, Nevin has played in a career-high 84 this season. It is a special figure for him, considering he played 105 total MLB games beforehand.
“I’ve spent most of my time here, which has allowed me…