1981 AL West Tiebreaker vs Royals
The 1981 Oakland Athletics swept the Royals in the ALDS, returning to the postseason for the first time since 1975.
The 1981 Oakland Athletics won the AL West first half with a 64–45 record and swept the Kansas City Royals in the American League Division Series, marking their first postseason appearance since 1975.
Quick Facts
- Date
- October 5, 1981
- Location
- Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
- Opponent
- Kansas City Royals
- Result
- Athletics Won (4-0)
- Significance
- Decided AL West Division Winner
Lore & Background
In the 1981 ALDS, the Athletics swept the defending American League champion Royals. Mike Norris pitched a four-hit complete game shutout in Game 1. Steve McCatty delivered another complete-game victory in Game 2. Dave McKay hit a two-run homer in Game 3 to seal the sweep. The Athletics then faced the New York Yankees in the ALCS, where they were swept.
Reader's Guide
The 1981 postseason was the only one where MLB used a divisional-based playoff structure due to the strike. The Athletics qualified as the AL West first-half winner. Their ALDS sweep of the Royals was their first postseason series win since 1975.
Did You Know?
- The Athletics and Royals met again in the 2014 Wild Card Game, which the Royals won 9–8 in 12 innings.
- The 1981 postseason was the last edition to feature four teams per league until 1995.
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