Dave Stewart Willing to Trade 1989 World Series Ring for A's to Stay in Oakland

Former Oakland A's pitcher Dave Stewart expressed his willingness to trade his 1989 World Series ring if it meant keeping the team in Oakland.

Dave Stewart, a former ace pitcher for the Oakland Athletics, has expressed his willingness to part with his 1989 World Series ring if it meant preserving the team's presence in Oakland.

Stewart, a key player on the A's championship team that defeated the San Francisco Giants in a series marred by the Loma Prieta earthquake, was asked if he would exchange the ring for the A's to remain in Oakland.

Dave Stewart Willing to Trade 1989 World Series Ring for A's to Stay in Oakland

"I'd do that in a heartbeat," Stewart declared unequivocally. "I grew up in this ballpark, from game one."

Stewart's deep connection to Oakland is evident, as he was born in the city in 1957, two years after the A's relocated from Kansas City. The Athletics have been a fixture in the Bay Area since moving from Philadelphia in 1968.

Dave Stewart Willing to Trade 1989 World Series Ring for A's to Stay in Oakland

The organization's impending move to Sacramento for the next three years, followed by a permanent relocation to Las Vegas in 2028, has raised concerns among fans and former players. Stewart's willingness to sacrifice his cherished memento underscores the emotional attachment many feel towards the team's Oakland home.

While Stewart's other two World Series rings with the Los Angeles Dodgers (1981) and Toronto Blue Jays (1993) hold significant value, the 1989 championship has particular resonance. Not only was it the A's first title since 1974, but it also marked a triumph in the face of adversity.

Dave Stewart Willing to Trade 1989 World Series Ring for A's to Stay in Oakland

The devastating earthquake during Game 3 of the World Series forced a suspension of the game and raised questions about whether the remainder of the series could be played. However, the A's and Giants resumed the series days later, providing a sense of solace to a region recovering from the disaster.

Stewart's hypothetical trade speaks to the enduring legacy of the Oakland A's and the strong bonds forged between the team and the community. While the organization prepares for its move, Stewart's words serve as a poignant reminder of the significance of its Oakland roots.

The A's will play their final season at the Oakland Coliseum in 2023 before transitioning to their temporary home in Sacramento. The move to Las Vegas is projected to bring the team a new stadium and state-of-the-art facilities, but it will also mark the end of an era for the A's in Oakland.

Stewart's hypothetical trade underscores the emotional connection that many fans have with the A's Oakland home. The franchise has been a beloved part of the Bay Area sports landscape for over five decades, and its departure will undoubtedly leave a void for many.

However, the A's organization remains committed to building a successful future, both on and off the field. The move to Las Vegas represents a new opportunity for the team to connect with a wider audience and create a new legacy in a vibrant and growing city.