In a shocking revelation surrounding the Oakland Athletics' imminent move to Las Vegas, it has come to light that a "gag order" has been placed on potential buyers, preventing them from openly discussing their interest in Oakland. This revelation has further fueled criticism of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and A's owner John Fisher for their lack of transparency in the matter.

Scott Ostler of the San Francisco Chronicle exposed this development, which contradicts Manfred's previous statement that "What happens in Oakland is between the citizens of Oakland and their elected officials." According to Ostler, various Bay Area groups have been warned not to publicly express their interest in the team, with the threat of being excluded from potential negotiations if they do.

This gag order has effectively dampened any public excitement or support for keeping a Major League Baseball team in Oakland, and it has also stifled prospects of bringing a new team to the city. However, according to Ostler, Oakland officials are actively working to reverse this restriction.

The repercussions of this revelation shed light on previous comments made by Warriors owner Joe Lacob, who expressed his interest in buying the A's but refrained from pursuing it due to concerns about displeasing Major League Baseball. This highlights the fear that potential buyers have in expressing their interest amidst the “gag order” and the consequences they may face if they speak out.

Furthermore, the African American Sports and Entertainment Group, which made a significant purchase of half of the Oakland Coliseum property, has been vocal about their plans for sports in the area but has remained largely silent on the topic of an MLB team.

Ostler suggests that this gag order serves to protect the egos of two powerful men—Fisher and Manfred—who are insecure about their decision to relocate the A's to Las Vegas. By preventing any potential success with a new owner in Oakland, they aim to justify their choice and avoid any backlash from a move that could potentially fail. Given Manfred's already contentious reception when addressing crowds, it is not difficult to imagine his reaction to a failed relocation being his most significant move as commissioner.

This latest development in the A's Oakland exit paints a grim picture of not just stripping the city of a beloved franchise but also attempting to quash any future prospects for baseball in the city. Critics argue that this move not only undermines the rich baseball history in Oakland but also undermines the passion and loyalty of its fans.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether efforts to reverse the gag order will succeed and allow potential buyers to openly express their interest in keeping an MLB team in Oakland. The future of baseball in the city hangs in the balance, and the hopes of fans and officials alike rest on the outcome of these ongoing negotiations.