Rooker was told he had 2 practice balls that didn't count toward the 40. He used the 2 balls, but replacements were not provided. He had approximately 5 seconds left, ran out of balls, and only had 38 thrown to him for the competition.
Valid points regarding who did what to whom. Whether it's MLB, the owner, fans, whomever - the Athletics have had a tough time the last couple of years and maybe a couple more ahead. Then off to Vegas - I wish them well.
I actually feel sorry for the Athletic fans more than anyone. I live in San Diego and have always cheered for the Chargers (until they moved to LA) and the Padres. I also own a 1974 Topps Washington Padres card just to remind me how close it was they almost left. I know what it's like having a small market team trying to compete. If you're a Yankees fan or a Dodgers fan - that's great.
Oakland has lost the Raiders and now has lost the Athletics. Can they cheer for the Giants and 49ers? Of course. Do they want to - absolutely not.
Is it about the money for the Athletics? Absolutely. Is having a 25% chance to win a million dollars lost because one competed on an uneven playing field? Absolutely.
Thanks for the observations and comments.
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