A's to Take on Sacramento Sun in 2026

The Athletics are making a big switch to their presentation in 2026, and it should result in a better fan experience that the players will also enjoy. The A's will be shifting their start times next season, meaning earlier nights for the fans and more family time for the players.

The team will be playing 53 night games at Sutter Health Park in 2026, and 47 of those will begin at 6:40 p.m. (PT), which is the time that they'd held first pitch back in Oakland. The reason that the first pitch had been delayed in the first season in Sacramento is because there was just an uncertainty with how hot it would be in he summer months.

Manager Mark Kotsay said during the season it's hot in Sacramento, but it's not the hottest place they've played by far. This earlier start times will help with the rhythm of the season, and allow there to be getaway games played in the afternoon.

Speaking of afternoon games, there will be 22 day games, with six of those having a 12:05 p.m. (PT) start time. While it seems counterintuitive to begin games during peak sunshine hours, after being in Sacramento for a year, the sun seemed to peak at around the three or four o'clock hour, so instead of arriving for the hottest part of the day, they'll be departing the ballpark instead.

As has been previously announced, the A's will also be playing six games at Las Vegas Ballpark, home of the Aviators, in early June. Below is the full press release from the Athletics.