Oakland Coliseum Executive Says Athletics Haven’t Paid Rent; A’s Respond

The Oakland Athletics informed the Coliseum authority they have “no ability to pay” $1.2 million rent, according to Coliseum authority leader.

“They said because they haven’t used it, they were not able to generate revenue and they have no ability to pay,” Coliseum authority interim executive director, Henry Gardner, told David DeBolt of the Mercury News Group.

“We recognize that we’ve all been upended in a number of ways,” Gardner added. “Maybe there are some things we are willing to negotiate and waive, but we can’t just say no rent.”

Rent was due April 1. The A’s responded in a statement on Wednesday.

“The A’s have fully supported the health directives and community efforts by the City of Oakland, Alameda County and the State.”

“The A’s sent notice to the JPA (authority) in March stating the Club is in support of these public health efforts and would defer annual rent payment, given the building was not available for use, per provisions in the contract.”

“The A’s look forward to when the City and County feel it is safe to lift current directives, and the A’s are granted access to the facility to play baseball.”

The MLB season remains in question as the COVID-19 pandemic continues stay-at-home orders in several states.

Follow 750 The Game on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.