Emotional Return: Stephen Vogt’s Homecoming to Oakland Coliseum

The 2024 MLB season opener at the Coliseum was filled with emotion as the Oakland Athletics took on the Cleveland Guardians. The A’s, coming off a tough 112-loss season in 2023, are looking to turn things around with a young and exciting roster. However, the looming possibility of relocation adds a bittersweet element to the season opener, as it could be the last Opening Day at the historic stadium.

For former A’s fan favorite and first-year Guardians manager Stephen Vogt, returning to Oakland was a special moment. Vogt, who spent six seasons with the A’s, expressed his mixed emotions about being back in a place he considers home. Surrounded by reporters before the game, Vogt shared his excitement about starting his managerial career in Oakland, a place that will always hold a special place in his heart.

With friends and family in attendance from his hometown of Visalia, Vogt’s wife Alyssa had circled this game on the calendar as a significant moment in his career. Vogt’s former manager and close friend, Mark Kotsay, also shared in the excitement, exchanging texts with Vogt before the game and praising his qualities as a future successful manager.

As Vogt reminisced about his favorite memories with the A’s, he highlighted the electric playoff atmosphere at the Coliseum, emphasizing the unique intensity that Oakland fans bring to the postseason. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the team’s future in Oakland, Vogt remains hopeful for a resolution that will benefit the loyal fans who have supported the team through thick and thin.

Returning to Oakland as an opponent, Vogt still considers the A’s organization and its fans as family. As he embarks on his managerial journey with the Guardians, Vogt’s return to the Coliseum serves as a poignant reminder of the memories and relationships that he holds dear from his time with the A’s.