Sacramento River Cats Say Decision To Move From Oakland A's To San Francisco Giants Wasn't Easy

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — The Sacramento River Cats made it official on Friday, holding a press conference announcing the team's affiliate change to the San Francisco Giants.

The team had been a Triple-A affiliate of the Oakland Athletics since the team's inception in 2000.

"We're one of the most successful minor franchises in the country," said River Cats President Jeff Savage.

In its 15-year affiliation with Oakland, the franchise has won seven Triple-A Pacific Coast League titles and led the minors in attendance for eight seasons.

So why the change?

"Making this decision was not an easy one," Savage said.

He calls it a business decision. The Giants boast higher TV ratings in the Sacramento area compared to oakland, and more fans are showing up at Raley Field in Giants gear. A recent Sacramento Bee poll showed more fans embrace the men in orange and black over green and gold.

West Sacramento leaders like Mayor Christopher Cabaldon also expect to cash in on Giants fever.

"The Giants are going to draw even more fans," he said. "All the support for the Junior Giants and other activity in the region it's going to create lots of other spinoff growth in the area as well."

Even former Giants greats like manager Dusty Baker are endorsing the deal.

"I'm happy the Giants are here," he said. "My son's happy the giants are here."

The new Giants deal is for two years. The A's have already signed an affiliation deal with a minor-league team in Nashville.