When the Athletics took the field Friday against the Colorado Rockies at Las Vegas Ballpark, the lineup told a story of organizational stability. Ten players, including starting pitcher Gage Jump, had combined for 788 games in the Aviators’ colors before reaching the majors.
“It’s a huge hat tip to the organization and what they’re doing and the scouting department,” catcher Shea Langeliers said. “The player development stuff has been really cool.”
The A’s are in the midst of a three-year stint in Sacramento before their planned move to Las Vegas, but the connection to their Triple-A affiliate has never been stronger. Manager Mark Kotsay, in his fifth season, praised the continuity provided by Aviators manager Fran Riordan, who is leading the team for a seventh season.
“Stability, continuity means a lot in an organization,” Kotsay said. “The more turnover you have, the harder it is to develop relationships and build trust. This organization has been built on continuity, loyalty.”
The homegrown talent has sparked a turnaround. The A’s are on pace for their best winning percentage since 2021, thanks to players like Langeliers (95 games with the Aviators), shortstop Jacob Thomas (176), outfielder Tyler Soderstrom (119), and third baseman Max Muncy (88). Star first baseman Nick Kurtz, fast-tracked through the minors, played 20 games for the Aviators.
This time, the A’s are keeping their emerging standouts rather than trading them away, breaking a pattern that defined the franchise’s recent history. Kotsay noted that players who spent time in Las Vegas are prepared for the lifestyle and expectations of the city.
“I think it helps anytime you have experience in life on and off the field,” Kotsay said. “You gain confidence in what you do. Where you’re at. Familiarities of your surroundings are important. But baseball’s not normal. Life isn’t normal in baseball.”
With the move to Las Vegas expected within two years, the familiarity the Aviators provide could ease the transition. “Guys don’t go out and party. They can’t,” Kotsay added. “I think that guys with the Aviators who know the ins and outs of the city … they’ll share those experiences with the guys who maybe haven’t spent time here.”
