Latest: The Main Reason Drake’s Brewing pulls out of Fans Fest

Greetings, Athletics Nation, and happy Friday!

The sudden withdrawal of sponsorship by Drake’s Brewing Company from this Saturday’s Fans Fest in San Leandro has left organizers at Last Dive Bar disappointed and facing some unexpected expenses. While speculation circulates about possible pressure from the A’s prompting Drake’s decision—given their beer sales at Coliseum games—A’s representatives, including president Dave Kaval, have vehemently denied any involvement, as reported by John Shea in the San Francisco Chronicle. Despite attempts to reach out, Drake’s has remained silent on the matter.

Fortunately, Last Dive Bar has managed to secure additional support from five local breweries, ensuring that Fans Fest attendees won’t go thirsty this weekend. Plus, the event promises a strong lineup of former A’s players, including Coco Crisp, Trevor May, Billy North, Mike Norris, Grant Balfour, and Ben Grieve. Personally, I’d love to be there, but the six-hour drive presents a bit of a hurdle.

We have some unfortunate news and are disappointed to announce Drake's Brewery has pulled their sponsorship, only three days before Fans Fest. LDB/68’s have incurred expenses purchasing sponsor banners, a digital marketing package and had rented equipment to set up a Drakes beer… pic.twitter.com/GZ52ZEjUMO

— Last Dive Bar 🏟 (@LastDiveBar) February 22, 2024

Shifting gears, for fantasy baseball aficionados, Eno Sarris at The Athletic has highlighted Joe Boyle as a potential sleeper pick for the tail end of your draft.

Have no fear!!! We gonna buy more beer!!!

Due to REAL CIRCUMSTANCES of guest needing a crisp cold beverage we have decided to invest into THE FANS!

I mean shit, we’re a Dive Bar! 4 kegs secured!

Happy to announce a new selection at fans fest: pic.twitter.com/s1ALMVpJ9J

— Last Dive Bar 🏟 (@LastDiveBar) February 22, 2024

On a different note, in a departure from A’s news, Jason Jones at The Athletic reminisced about Dwight Gooden, my all-time favorite player who never donned the green and gold, as part of the site’s Black Aces series honoring Black History Month, reflecting on Gooden’s remarkable yet tragic career.

Wishing you all a fantastic weekend, AN!