Clem Mcphee

Written by Clem Mcphee

Published: 14 Aug 2025

50-facts-about-athletics-vs-nationals
Source: Syracuse.com

Who has the edge when it comes to Athletics vs Nationals? Whether you're a die-hard baseball fan or just curious about these two teams, this post will give you a quick rundown of some fascinating facts. The Oakland Athletics, known for their rich history and iconic green and gold uniforms, have been a staple in Major League Baseball since 1901. On the other hand, the Washington Nationals, a relatively newer team established in 2005, have quickly made a name for themselves with a World Series win in 2019. From legendary players to unforgettable moments, both teams have their unique stories. Let's dive into 50 facts that highlight the differences and similarities between these two baseball powerhouses.

Table of Contents

The Rivalry Begins

The Athletics and Nationals have a storied history in Major League Baseball. Their rivalry, though not as famous as some others, is filled with interesting moments and facts.

  1. The Athletics, also known as the A's, were founded in 1901.
  2. The Nationals, often called the Nats, were established much later in 1969.
  3. The A's originally played in Philadelphia before moving to Kansas City and then Oakland.
  4. The Nationals started as the Montreal Expos before relocating to Washington, D.C. in 2005.
  5. The A's have won nine World Series titles.
  6. The Nationals secured their first World Series championship in 2019.
  7. The A's mascot is an elephant named Stomper.
  8. The Nationals' mascot is a bald eagle named Screech.
  9. The A's are known for their green and gold uniforms.
  10. The Nationals sport red, white, and blue colors.

Key Players and Moments

Both teams have had their share of legendary players and unforgettable moments that have shaped their histories.

  1. Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson played for the A's.
  2. Bryce Harper, a former MVP, started his career with the Nationals.
  3. The A's were featured in the book and movie "Moneyball."
  4. The Nationals' 2019 World Series run included a dramatic comeback against the Houston Astros.
  5. Rickey Henderson, the all-time stolen base leader, spent much of his career with the A's.
  6. Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young Award winner, pitched for the Nationals.
  7. The A's have had 15 players inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame.
  8. The Nationals have had 3 players inducted into the Hall of Fame.
  9. The A's have retired five numbers in their history.
  10. The Nationals have retired one number: Jackie Robinson's 42, which is retired league-wide.

Stadiums and Fan Experience

The ballparks and fan experiences for both teams offer unique atmospheres that add to the charm of each franchise.

  1. The A's play their home games at the Oakland Coliseum.
  2. The Nationals call Nationals Park their home.
  3. The Oakland Coliseum is known for its vast foul territory.
  4. Nationals Park offers stunning views of the Capitol building.
  5. The A's have one of the most passionate fan bases in MLB.
  6. Nationals fans are known for their "N-A-T-S, Nats, Nats, Nats, Woo!" chant.
  7. The A's have a dedicated section called the "Right Field Bleachers."
  8. Nationals Park has a popular Presidents Race during games.
  9. The A's offer a unique "Treehouse" seating area for fans.
  10. Nationals Park features a variety of local food options, including Ben's Chili Bowl.

Records and Achievements

Both teams have set numerous records and achieved significant milestones throughout their histories.

  1. The A's hold the record for the longest winning streak in American League history with 20 games.
  2. The Nationals set a franchise record with 97 wins in 2012.
  3. The A's have had 4 MVP winners.
  4. The Nationals have had 2 MVP winners.
  5. The A's have won 15 American League pennants.
  6. The Nationals have won 1 National League pennant.
  7. The A's have had 4 Cy Young Award winners.
  8. The Nationals have had 3 Cy Young Award winners.
  9. The A's have had 6 Rookie of the Year winners.
  10. The Nationals have had 1 Rookie of the Year winner.

Community and Legacy

Both franchises have made significant contributions to their communities and left lasting legacies in the world of baseball.

  1. The A's are known for their community outreach programs in Oakland.
  2. The Nationals have a foundation that supports youth baseball in Washington, D.C.
  3. The A's have a long-standing tradition of hosting fireworks nights.
  4. The Nationals host an annual "Night OUT" event to support the LGBTQ+ community.
  5. The A's have a program called "A's Amigos" that provides game tickets to underprivileged youth.
  6. The Nationals have a "Youth Baseball Academy" that offers free programs for kids.
  7. The A's have a rich history of promoting diversity within their organization.
  8. The Nationals have a "Salute to Service" program honoring military members.
  9. The A's have a strong presence in the Bay Area sports community.
  10. The Nationals are deeply rooted in the Washington, D.C. sports scene.

Final Whistle

Athletics vs Nationals games are always a thrill. From historic rivalries to record-breaking moments, these matchups never disappoint. Fans get to witness incredible athleticism, strategic plays, and sometimes, unexpected twists. Whether you're rooting for the Athletics or the Nationals, the excitement is undeniable.

Both teams have rich histories and passionate fan bases. Their games offer more than just scores; they provide memories, stories, and a sense of community. So, next time these two teams face off, grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show.

Sports bring people together, and the Athletics vs Nationals rivalry is a perfect example. It's not just about winning or losing; it's about the love of the game. Keep cheering, keep supporting, and most importantly, keep enjoying every moment.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.