The Oakland A’s won three straight World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. Only the Yankees have achieved a threepeat, once from 1936 to 1939, and again from 1998 to 2000. And yet, the A’s are rarely brought up in conversations about the greatest teams in baseball history.
In 1972, they beat the Big Red Machine, a Cincinnati team featuring Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose, and Tony Pérez. In 1973, they took down the New York Mets, led by Tom Seaver, Jerry Koosman, and Rusty Staub. In 1974, they finished off the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team with Steve Garvey, Ron Cey, Davey Lopes, and Don Sutton.
Their success was built on elite pitching, clutch hitting, and chaos behind the scenes. The rotation featured Catfish Hunter, Vida Blue, and Ken Holtzman. Rollie Fingers closed games. Reggie Jackson, Gene Tenace and Sal Bando led the offense. The clubhouse was full of fights, tension, and contract disputes, all under the control of eccentric owner Charlie Finley.
They weren’t clean. They weren’t quiet. But they won. Three years in a row.
The Oakland A's Threepeat Main Characters
Owner - Charlie Finley
Charlie Finley was one of the most spiteful and eccentric owners in sports history. Hated by many of his players, he was controlling, petty, and constantly interfering. But he built one of the greatest teams the game has ever seen.
He moved the franchise from Kansas City to Oakland. He changed the uniforms to bright green and gold, breaking away from the league's traditional colors. He pushed mustaches, gimmicks, and constant publicity stunts. Most of all, he made sure the spotlight stayed on him.
Finley had no interest in loyalty. He underpaid stars, fired people impulsively, and regularly fought with his own roster. Managers quit. Players threatened to walk. The clubhouse was a mess.
But the team kept winning. Not because of Finley’s leadership, but often in spite of it. The A’s were tense, unpredictable, and impossible to ignore. So was he.
Reggie Jackson - Star Left Fielder (HOF)
Reggie Jackson, the player who stirred the drink, began his career with the Kansas City Athletics before moving to Oakland. Known as one of the league's premier power hitters, Jackson was famous for his brash confidence and his ability to perform on the big stage.
He led the A’s in home runs every year of their three-peat, finishing with 25 in 1972, a down year by his standards, and bouncing back with 32 in 1973.
Jackson was a key force in Oakland’s dominance, earning his spot as one of the game's all-time greats.
Catfish Hunter - Starting Ace Pitcher (HOF)
Catfish Hunter’s career took off thanks to Charlie Finley, who saw past a hand injury that scared off other teams and signed Hunter to a contract. Over his time in Oakland, Hunter was named to six All-Star teams and became one of the best pitchers of the 1970s.
In 1972, he was dominant, finishing with a 21-7 record and a 2.04 ERA. He followed it up in 1973 with a 21-5 record and a 3.34 ERA. In his final season with Oakland, Hunter led the league with 25 wins and a 2.49 ERA, earning his first Cy Young Award.
Hunter’s relationship with Finley soured when the owner refused to pay him what he was worth, pushing him to become one of the first players to take full advantage of free agency.
Rollie Fingers - Star Relief Pitcher (HOF)
Rollie Fingers was an eccentric presence on the mound. Standing at 6-4 with a long mustache, he played for Oakland from 1968 to 1976 and was one of the most effective relievers of the 1970s.
Fingers was a key part of Oakland’s championship teams, establishing himself as one of the top closers in baseball. In 1972, he went 11-9 with a 2.51 ERA and a league-leading 21 saves. He followed up with a 1.92 ERA and 22 saves in 1973, earning his first All-Star selection. In 1974, he was again named an All-Star after leading the league with 76 appearances and a 2.65 ERA. His deadly slider and pinpoint control made him nearly unhittable.
After leaving Oakland in 1977, Fingers continued to thrive with San Diego and Milwaukee. In 1981, at 34, he won both the Cy Young and MVP awards. He was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1992.
Vida Blue - Starting Ace Pitcher
Vida Blue was a shooting star in baseball. In 1971, at just 22 years old, he became the youngest player in Major League Baseball history to win both the American League Cy Young Award and the Most Valuable Player Award in the same season . That year, he posted a 24–8 record with a 1.82 ERA, leading the league in wins, ERA, complete games (24), shutouts (8), and strikeouts (301) .
Blue's dominance on the mound was complemented by his athleticism and charisma, making him a fan favorite in the Bay Area. He played a pivotal role in the Oakland Athletics' three consecutive World Series championships from 1972 to 1974 .
Off the field, Blue's relationship with A's owner Charlie Finley was tumultuous. In 1971, Finley offered him $2,000 to legally change his middle name to "True," a gimmick to market his star power. Blue declined, leading Finley to label him "True Blue" on scoreboards and in broadcasts, a move that strained their relationship .
Despite these challenges, Blue's impact on the game was undeniable. He finished his career with 209 wins, a 3.27 ERA, and 2,175 strikeouts over 17 seasons. He was a six-time All-Star and was inducted into the Oakland A's Hall of Fame in 2019 .
Sal Bando - Third Base
Sal Bando was a ballplayer’s ballplayer one of the most underrated postseason hitters in baseball history. As the anchor of Oakland’s infield during their three-peat, Bando delivered a number of clutch hits at key moments.
A reliable glove at third, Bando was known for his ability to get on base, even when his batting average didn’t reflect it. In 1972, he hit just .236 but posted a solid .341 on-base percentage, showcasing his knack for drawing walks and getting into scoring position.
Bando’s breakout year came in 1973, when he hit .287 with 29 home runs and 98 RBIs, emerging as one of the team’s top power hitters. His steady bat and leadership were crucial to the A’s success, especially in the postseason, where he consistently came through in big moments.
Joe Rudi - Left Field
Joe Rudi was a key contributor to the Oakland A’s during their 1970s dynasty. In 1972, he led the team with a .305 batting average and 181 hits, also leading the American League in triples with nine. That season, he finished second in AL MVP voting, highlighting his significant impact on the team's success.
Defensively, Rudi was exceptional. He won three consecutive Gold Glove Awards from 1974 to 1976, recognized for his outstanding play in left field. One of his most memorable defensive moments came in the 1972 World Series, when he made a game-saving catch in Game 2, leaping against the left-field wall to rob a hit.
Rudi's consistent performance both at the plate and in the field made him a valuable asset to the A’s during their championship runs.
Gene Tennis - Catcher /First Base
Gene Tenace was crucial in several key postseason moments, delivering clutch hits when the A’s were backed into a corner. His timely batting helped keep their championship hopes alive in multiple series.
In the 1972 World Series, Tenace earned the World Series MVP award by hitting four home runs and driving in nine RBIs. He also delivered a crucial two-run single in Game 7, leading the A’s to a 3–2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
Tenace's breakout year came in 1973 when he moved from his utility role to first base after Mike Epstein was traded. He finished the season with a .259 batting average, 24 home runs, and 84 RBIs, establishing himself as a reliable force in the A’s lineup.
Throughout his career, Tenace was known for his strong defensive skills and ability to get on base. He played a significant role in the A’s success during the early 1970s.
Ray Fosse - Catcher
Ray Fosse was a hard-nosed catcher known for his strong defense and leadership behind the plate. He made his first All-Star appearance in 1970, where he was having an impressive season with a .307 batting average and 18 home runs. That year, he became a central figure in one of the most memorable moments in All-Star Game history when Pete Rose collided with him at home plate, injuring Fosse’s shoulder. Despite the injury, Fosse continued playing through considerable pain, but it impacted his performance going forward.
Despite the setback, Fosse had a solid career, winning two World Series titles with the A’s in 1973 and 1974. He was known for his ability to handle pitchers and was a steady presence behind the plate, guiding the A’s staff through their championship runs.
After retiring from playing, Fosse became a beloved broadcaster for the A’s, where he was a color commentator for many years, further cementing his place in the organization’s history.
Blue Moon Odom - Pitcher
Blue Moon Odom first joined the A’s as a teenager when the team was still based in Kansas City. His best season came in 1968, when he posted a 16-10 record with a 2.45 ERA, establishing himself as one of the promising young arms in the league.
During the A's championship seasons, Odom played a pivotal role with a 15-6 record and a 2.50 ERA in 1972. He was a reliable starter, providing much-needed depth to a rotation that featured the likes of Catfish Hunter and Vida Blue.
However, Odom’s performance began to decline in 1973 and 1974, as he struggled to maintain his form. After the A’s dynasty years, Odom was traded to Cleveland in 1975, where he continued his career but never quite returned to his peak form.
Burt "Campy" Campaneris - Shortstop
Bert "Campy" Campaneris was one of the most dynamic shortstops of his era, known for his incredible speed and defensive abilities. A six-time All-Star, he was a mainstay for the Oakland A’s during their 1970s dynasty. Campaneris led the American League in stolen bases six times and finished his career with 649 stolen bases, solidifying his reputation as one of the best base stealers in MLB history.
Defensively, Campaneris was a standout at shortstop, finishing among the league leaders in putouts and double plays multiple times. His range and consistency helped anchor the A’s infield throughout their championship runs.
In the 1973 World Series, Campaneris made a significant impact, hitting a key home run in Game 7 to help the A’s secure the championship. After his playing career, he remained involved in baseball, coaching in Japan and continuing to be a respected figure in the game.
Bill North - Centerfield
Bill North was a dynamic and speedy center fielder for the Oakland A’s during their 1970s championship era. Known for his exceptional base-stealing abilities, North led the American League in stolen bases in both 1974 and 1976, with 54 and 75 steals, respectively. His 75 steals in 1976 set a new franchise record at the time.
In addition to his prowess on the basepaths, North was a consistent hitter and a reliable presence in the outfield. He played a key role in the A’s success during the mid-1970s, contributing both offensively and defensively.
MC Hammer - 13 Year Old Bat Boy
Before becoming a hip-hop legend, MC Hammer was a bat boy for the Oakland A’s. At just 11 years old, he caught the attention of A’s owner Charlie Finley while dancing in the Coliseum parking lot. Impressed by his energy, Finley gave him a job as a clubhouse assistant and bat boy.
During his time with the A’s, Hammer earned the nickname “Little Hammer” due to his resemblance to Hall of Famer Hank Aaron. This nickname stuck, and when he transitioned to the music industry, he adopted it as his stage name, becoming MC Hammer.
Hammer’s time with the team went beyond just being a bat boy. He often helped out when Finley wasn’t around, even filling in for him on occasion. Finley humorously gave him the title of "Executive Vice President."
His time with the A’s influenced his career later on, as he maintained friendships with players, and these connections helped him get his start in the music world.
Best of The Rest
Dick Williams - Manager
Dick Williams was known for his fiery, no-nonsense leadership style. As the manager of the Oakland A’s, he pushed his players to their limits, often demanding perfection while keeping the team focused on their championship goals. His intensity was matched by his deep understanding of the game, making him one of the most respected managers in baseball during the 1970s.
Under Williams, the A’s became a powerhouse, winning three consecutive World Series titles from 1972 to 1974. He knew how to manage personalities and deal with the egos of players like Reggie Jackson, and his ability to navigate the volatile clubhouse environment was a key to their success.
Williams wasn't afraid to make tough decisions, often putting the team's success ahead of individual players’ feelings. His leadership style wasn’t always smooth, but it was effective, bringing out the best in his players and securing the A's place in baseball history.
Dave Duncan - Catcher
Dave Duncan was the catcher for the A’s on their 1972 Championship team. Known for his solid defensive skills and ability to handle pitchers, Duncan played a key role in Oakland's success. Though he wasn’t a standout offensively, his work behind the plate was crucial in guiding the A’s pitching staff, including stars like Catfish Hunter and Vida Blue. Duncan's leadership helped anchor the team’s defense during their championship run.
Dick Green - Second base
Dick Green was a cornerstone of the Oakland A’s during their 1970s dynasty, known for his exceptional defensive skills and steady presence at second base. Over his 12-year MLB career, all with the A’s, he became a key figure in the team’s success, earning three World Series championships from 1972 to 1974.
Mike Epstein - First Base
Mike Epstein was a powerful presence in the middle of the Oakland A’s lineup during their 1972 championship season. He led the team with 26 home runs and a .376 on-base percentage, ranking among the American League leaders in both categories. His slugging ability and plate discipline made him a key contributor to the A’s offense.
Despite his on-field success, Epstein's tenure with the A’s was marked by tension. An altercation with teammate Reggie Jackson over the use of complimentary tickets led to a public dispute, and Epstein was subsequently traded to the Texas Rangers in December 1972.
Epstein's contributions to the A’s were significant during his time with the team, and he remains a notable figure in their history.
Claude Washington - Outfield
Claude Washington, a Bay Area native who attended Berkeley High, made his MLB debut with the Oakland A’s during their 1974 World Series-winning season. At just 19 years old, he played in 73 games, hitting .285 with 19 RBIs. The following year, Washington broke out, posting a .308 batting average, 10 home runs, and 77 RBIs. He also stole 40 bases and earned an All-Star selection, showcasing the promise he had at such a young age.
After being traded to Texas in 1978, Washington never quite lived up to the expectations set by his breakout season. Though he had a solid, productive career, he was never named to another All-Star team.
The Oakland Championship Years 1972-1973-1974
The Oakland A’s dominated Major League Baseball from 1972 to 1974, winning three consecutive World Series titles. Under manager Dick Williams, the team showcased exceptional pitching, timely hitting, and a roster full of talented, albeit volatile, players. With stars like Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter, Vida Blue, and Rollie Fingers, the A’s overcame fierce competition, including the Big Red Machine and the Mets, to solidify their place in baseball history.
1972 Regular Season
The Oakland A’s had a strong regular season in 1972, finishing with a 93-62 record and clinching the American League West Division title. Key performances came from their pitching staff, led by Catfish Hunter, who posted a 21-7 record and a 2.04 ERA, earning an All-Star selection. Vida Blue added to the success with a 24-8 record and a league-leading 1.82 ERA, securing the AL Cy Young Award. Rollie Fingers also emerged as a reliable closer, finishing with a 1.92 ERA and 21 saves, contributing significantly to the team's success.
Offensively, the team was led by Reggie Jackson, who hit 32 home runs and drove in 77 RBIs, earning an All-Star selection. Sal Bando, also named an All-Star that season, contributed with both the bat and in the field, finishing with a .236 batting average and a .341 OBP. Despite battling injuries and internal tensions, the A’s finished the season strong, setting the stage for their championship run.
1972 World Series
The 1972 World Series saw the Oakland A’s face off against the Cincinnati Reds in a highly competitive matchup. The A’s, led by manager Dick Williams, won the Series in seven games (4-3), capturing their first championship since the team relocated to Oakland.
Key moments included Gene Tenace’s powerful performance, hitting four home runs and driving in nine RBIs, earning him the World Series MVP award. Tenace’s clutch hitting, especially in Game 1 and Game 7, helped propel the A’s to victory.
Oakland’s pitching staff, anchored by Catfish Hunter and Rollie Fingers, also played a crucial role, with Hunter’s shutout in Game 3 and Fingers closing out the series in Game 7. The A’s overcame a formidable Reds lineup that featured stars like Johnny Bench and Pete Rose, ultimately sealing their place as champions.
1973 Regular Season
The Oakland A’s finished the 1973 regular season with a 94-68 record, clinching the American League West Division title for the second consecutive year. The team’s success was driven by a mix of strong pitching, timely hitting, and solid defense.
Catfish Hunter once again anchored the pitching staff with a 21-5 record and a 3.34 ERA, earning his third All-Star selection. Vida Blue continued his dominance, finishing with a 20-9 record and a 3.28 ERA. Rollie Fingers also played a vital role in the bullpen, finishing the season with 22 saves and a 1.92 ERA.
Offensively, Reggie Jackson led the charge, hitting 32 home runs and driving in 91 RBIs. Sal Bando was steady, contributing with a .280 average and 22 home runs, while Joe Rudi added power and consistency to the lineup.
Despite a few injuries, the A’s proved once again that they had one of the most balanced teams in the league, setting the stage for another World Series appearance.
1973 World Series
The 1973 World Series featured the Oakland A’s facing off against the New York Mets. Despite a late-season surge from the Mets, the A’s triumphed, winning the series 4-3 to claim their second consecutive World Series title.
Key players for Oakland included Gene Tenace, who was named World Series MVP after hitting .348 with 2 home runs and 8 RBIs, and Reggie Jackson, who provided consistent power and leadership. Rollie Fingers played a crucial role in the bullpen, securing important saves.
The series was marked by a dramatic Game 7, where the A’s overcame a gritty Mets team. A two-run single by Sal Bando in the 7th inning helped the A’s secure the victory. Despite the Mets’ strong pitching, particularly from Tom Seaver and Jon Matlack, the A’s maintained their dominance, showcasing their superior offense and pitching depth.
The victory cemented Oakland’s place as a baseball powerhouse and solidified their status as a dynasty in the early 1970s.
1974 Regular Season
The Oakland A’s had another strong showing in 1974, finishing with a 90-72 record and clinching their third consecutive American League West Division title. The team continued to rely on a balanced mix of dominant pitching, solid defense, and timely hitting to maintain their edge.
Catfish Hunter once again anchored the starting rotation with a 25-12 record and a 2.49 ERA, winning his first and only Cy Young Award. Vida Blue contributed with a 17-15 record and a 3.11 ERA, while Rollie Fingers was lights out in the bullpen, earning 22 saves with a 2.40 ERA.
Offensively, Reggie Jackson was the star of the show, blasting 29 home runs and driving in 77 RBIs. Sal Bando provided stability, hitting 22 home runs and finishing with a .266 average, while Joe Rudi added another solid year in the outfield, hitting 18 home runs and driving in 75 RBIs.
The A’s were once again one of the most complete teams in baseball, proving their resilience in the face of internal tension and injuries, setting the stage for their third consecutive World Series appearance.
1974 World Series
The 1974 World Series saw the Oakland A’s facing off against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The A’s triumphed in five games (4-1), securing their third consecutive World Series title and cementing their place in baseball history as a dominant dynasty of the 1970s.
Key performances included Reggie Jackson, who hit .310 with 2 home runs and 6 RBIs, and was named the World Series MVP. His power and presence at the plate helped fuel Oakland's offense throughout the series. Gene Tenace also played a pivotal role, contributing 2 home runs and 5 RBIs, while Sal Bando provided consistent offensive support.
On the mound, Catfish Hunter was outstanding, earning a win in Game 1 with a complete game performance. Rollie Fingers came through with clutch relief appearances, shutting down the Dodgers’ offense in key moments.
The Dodgers were competitive, but Oakland's pitching depth and timely hitting proved too much for them. This victory marked the A’s third consecutive championship and solidified their dynasty in the early 1970s.
The Swingin A's of The 1970's.
The Oakland A’s of the early 1970s were more than just a team; they were a force in Major League Baseball. With their unparalleled pitching staff, dynamic offense, and often colorful personalities, the A's established one of the most successful dynasties in baseball history. Under the leadership of manager Dick Williams and with key figures like Reggie Jackson, Vida Blue, and Rollie Fingers, the A’s not only won three consecutive World Series titles but also solidified their place in the hearts of baseball fans.
Their success wasn’t just measured in wins and titles; it was also about the culture they built — a team that thrived despite tension and adversity, playing with intensity and heart. From the clubhouse to the diamond, the A's embodied the spirit of the 1970s, a time when baseball was as much about personality as it was about performance. As we reflect on their legacy, the Swingin’ A’s remind us that in sports, it’s not just about the victories, but also the indelible moments, personalities, and stories that make a team truly unforgettable.
Even though the A’s have since left Oakland, the spirit of those legendary teams will forever live in the town, a symbol of resilience, passion, and triumph.