Ranking every World Series winners in history
By Staff
29. 1989 Oakland Athletics
99-63, AL West Champions, Won World Series 4-0 Over San Francisco
Had they fared better in the postseason, the Oakland Athletics of the late 1980s and early 1990s would have been remembered as one of baseball’s top dynasties. Unfortunately, the A’s were able to win the World Series just once in three tries from 1988-90, with the ’89 club capturing the franchise’s first World Championship since 1974, which remains the last time Oakland has won it all.
The A’s were the best team in baseball in 1989 with a record of 99-63, and won the American League West by seven games over the Kansas City Royals. Oakland made quick work of the Toronto Blue Jays in the ALCS, winning in five games, then swept the neighboring San Francisco Giants in the World Series (though the Fall Classic was postponed ten days by an earthquake that struck the area just before Game 3).
Known for explosive offensive teams featuring Hall of Fame leadoff man Rickey Henderson and sluggers Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco, the ’89 A’s won thanks to the best pitching staff in the American League. Dave Stewart (21-9, 3.32) and Dennis Eckersley (1.56, 33 saves) led the pitching staff that posted an AL-best 3.09 ERA. Stewart was named World Series MVP after earning the wins in Game 1 (a five-hit shutout) and Game 3.
Henderson and Canseco were limited to 85 and 65 games, respectively, during the regular season, but made a big impact in the World Series and combined for two of Oakland’s nine series home runs.