Oakland Athletics reliever Trevor May has called on owner John Fisher to sell the franchise, citing a lack of pride and greed. May made this plea in a passionate video message announcing his retirement, where he criticized Fisher for his current ownership and his plans to relocate the team to Las Vegas. May urged Fisher to let someone who genuinely cares about the game take over and to avoid relying on inherited wealth. Fisher, whose parents founded Gap, Inc., took ownership of the A’s in 2005.
The Athletics have consistently ranked near the bottom in terms of payroll in Major League Baseball, and their poor performance this season with a record of 50-112 has further frustrated fans. May expressed his frustration with Fisher’s greed and lack of accountability, urging him to take responsibility for his actions as a billionaire owner. Despite his strong words, May acknowledged that Fisher holds the power due to his wealth and status.
May, 34, previously played for the Minnesota Twins and the New York Mets before joining the Athletics. In his last season with the team, he recorded 21 saves and a 3.28 ERA. In his final 15 appearances, he achieved a 1-0 record with nine saves and a 0.00 ERA.
The issue of owners and their commitment to their respective teams is a topic of debate and concern across professional sports. Fans often criticize owners who prioritize profits over the success and well-being of their teams. May’s comments have added fuel to the ongoing discussion regarding the responsibilities of team owners and their impact on the game.
It remains to be seen whether Fisher will respond to May’s plea to sell the franchise. As the majority owner, Fisher has the final say in any decisions regarding the team’s future. With the Athletics looking to move to Las Vegas and dissatisfaction among fans in Oakland, the future of the franchise hangs in the balance. Fans are hoping for a resolution that prioritizes the interests of the team and the city it represents.
The Athletics’ struggles and the call for Fisher to sell the franchise highlight the complex relationship between owners and players, as well as the ongoing challenges facing professional sports organizations. May’s retirement announcement serves as a reminder of the larger issues at play and the desire for change among those directly involved in the game. The search for a new owner who will prioritize the team’s success and prioritize the interests of the players and fans remains ongoing.