San Jose Athletics?

News broke today via @BNightengale (MLB Writer for USA Today) on twitter that the Oakland Athletics would be announcing a move to San Jose as early as February 2012. The news, while expected due to negotiations and talks of San Jose dating back months ago, has left faithful of the green and gold in a state of disenchantment with the franchise. The trade of fan favorite for Gio Gonzalez on December 22nd coupled with the Trade of Trevor Cahill left many confused about the dictection of the organization. Now, with plans of a move to Jack London square seemingly dissolved, and talks of two time all star closer, Andrew Bailey, being traded the fans seem all to overwhelmed with the progressive changes to the team. The feeling of 44 years of history being uprooted all because of one decision has resulted in preverbal fissures and shockwaves that have toppled the loyalty of east bay residents. But what does mean for the team and the city of Oakland?
O.co Coliseum has never been a venue for those searching for an aesthetic experience. The stadium has been the shared residency of the A's and Raiders for multiple years. The venue offers cheap seats, great views, wonderful tailgating and the palpable sense of local connectivity. The structure is not only an east bay icon, but a symbol of the loyalty of the community. A key criticism of the ballpark has been the lack of attendance, which was the lowest in the majors in the year 2011, but allow me to present a rebuttal. Would you rather be inside of a sold out stadium full of uninterested bandwagoners or have lots of leg room, surround yourself with loyal and passionate residents and take in the scenic views. I would chose the latter. But it is up to personal preference...
The move to San Jose would drastically increase ticket prices and add unwanted amenities. Beane and Wolff want to be a part of San Jose's market and increase their revenue, which is why they have stressed the relocation. However, the Raiders would then receive an NFL Stadium in Oakland, which is a positive out of this upheaval. A's fans have cited that they will not follow the team to SJ, stating the team belongs in Oakland, but the team could go anywhere for all I'd care, and they'd always be the Oakland Athletics to me.