A's First World Series 1972 Champions

On October 22, 1972, the Oakland Athletics cemented their place in baseball history by defeating the Cincinnati Reds 3–2 in Game 7 of the World Series to capture the franchise’s first championship since moving to Oakland. Behind the clutch hitting of Gene Tenace, who earned Series MVP honors, and the shutdown relief of Rollie Fingers, the A’s outlasted Cincinnati’s Big Red Machine in a tense, winner-take-all finale at Riverfront Stadium.

What made this victory unforgettable was that it marked the beginning of a dynasty. The Swingin’ A’s of the 1970s — with stars like Reggie Jackson, Catfish Hunter, Vida Blue, and Rollie Fingers — would go on to win three consecutive World Series titles (1972–1974). But it all began with this gritty Game 7 triumph, a moment that defined an era and gave Oakland its first taste of championship glory. This ticket and artwork immortalize the start of that legendary run.