Oakland A's Tie MLB Record For Longest Losing Streak At 23 Games
Oakland As Tie MLB Record For Longest Losing Streak At 23 Games...
The Oakland Athletics have matched the longest losing streak in MLB history after dropping their 23rd consecutive game Thursday night. Their 8-1 loss to the Houston Astros ties the 1961 Philadelphia Phillies' infamous record, sparking national attention as the struggling franchise faces mounting scrutiny.
The streak began on April 1 with an opening day loss and has included historic offensive struggles - the A's have been outscored 183-65 during the skid. Manager Mark Kotsay told reporters after Thursday's game: "This isn't the record we wanted. The players are fighting, but we have to find solutions."
Fans at the Coliseum have turned increasingly vocal, with many chanting "Sell the team!" during recent home games. Owner John Fisher's relocation plans to Las Vegas and the team's league-low $42 million payroll have drawn criticism throughout baseball.
The Athletics now face the Chicago White Sox this weekend with a chance to either break the record or finally snap the streak. MLB Network will carry Saturday's game nationally due to the historic circumstances.
This dismal stretch comes amid broader concerns about competitive balance in baseball. The A's 23-game skid represents the longest in any of the four major US sports since the NBA's 2010-11 Cleveland Cavaliers lost 26 straight.
Baseball historians note the 1961 Phillies team that set the original record featured future Hall of Famer Richie Ashburn. The current A's roster, built through trades and bargain signings, lacks similar star power.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the situation Thursday, stating: "While no one wants to see records like this, we remain confident in the Athletics' long-term future." The team's Las Vegas ballpark is scheduled to open in 2028.
With social media buzzing about the streak and sports networks running constant updates, the A's have become an unlikely national storyline. Their next game could make unwanted history - or finally provide relief for long-suffering Oakland fans.
