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- calendar_today October 22, 2026
Introduction of Taylor Smith as Baseball Operations President
Taylor Smith has assumed the position of president of baseball operations for the Oakland Athletics, becoming Major League Baseball's youngest executive to hold the title at age 31. Smith is tasked with revitalizing a struggling franchise as it prepares for a major transition: relocating to a new $2.1 billion ballpark on the Las Vegas Strip in April 2028.
Leveraging a "Moneyball" Legacy and Analytics
Smith brings to the role a strong background in analytics, aiming to emulate the famed “Moneyball” approach first championed by former A's General Manager Billy Beane. This data-driven strategy, which inspired both a best-selling book and a film, will form the foundation of Smith's blueprint for team competitiveness as the Athletics seek to end a drought of winning seasons since 2021.
"We're doing our due diligence, trying to figure out what are the best ways to make the roster better," Smith said. He noted that the goal extends beyond the 2028 debut in Las Vegas: "Our goal is to be competitive, not just by 2028, but for a sustainable future."
Professional Path and "Moneyball" Connections
Smith’s career includes two seasons as assistant general manager for the Boston Red Sox, where he oversaw baseball research and development, and seven years in the Tampa Bay Rays’ front office. During his introduction, Smith revealed he had several interviews with Billy Beane during the hiring process and received congratulations following his appointment.
Preparing for the Relocation to Las Vegas
With their final season in Sacramento ahead, where the team plays at a Triple-A stadium, the Athletics are already laying foundations for the Las Vegas move. Smith plans to relocate to Las Vegas "as quickly as possible" to immerse himself in both the organization and the local community. The team’s offices are established at the Black Fire Research Institute, providing a base as they map out the transition.
Team Composition and Key Players for 2028
The Athletics concluded the 2026 season at 64-98, ranking fourth in the American League West. Four cornerstone players have been secured with long-term contracts: outfielders Tyler Soderstrom and Lawrence Butler, designated hitter Brent Rooker, and infielder Jacob Wilson. All are expected to play significant roles when the team takes the field in Las Vegas.
Smith declined to comment on possible negotiations with other key players such as first baseman Nick Kurtz and catcher Shea Langeliers, both of whom had injury setbacks last season. Langeliers previously built early fan connections during a prior stint in Las Vegas, while Kurtz became popular among Southern Nevada fans after a stint with the Las Vegas Aviators, the Athletics' Triple-A affiliate.
Organizational Structure and Labor Uncertainty
Currently, the team will not have a general manager; Smith will lead baseball operations. Owner John Fisher indicated this may change, suggesting the Athletics could eventually follow the organizational model used by teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have both a president of baseball operations and a general manager.
A potential lockout looms as baseball’s collective bargaining agreement negotiations remain unresolved, with a work stoppage possible after the World Series. "It's just business as usual right now," Smith stated. Fisher expressed hope that the parties could avoid a lockout, emphasizing a shared interest in maintaining uninterrupted play.
Next Steps for the Athletics' Baseball Operations
Smith has started discussions with manager Mark Kotsay, who is under contract through the 2028 season. Engaging with players and staff is a key part of Smith’s plan, as he seeks insights that will inform the team's future direction. With the countdown to 2028 now underway, Smith’s leadership will be critical as the A’s embrace analytics and community integration in pursuit of on-field success.
Source: thenevadaindependent.com.
