Oakland Athletics (50-69) vs. New York Mets (61-57)
On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, the MLB betting landscape features an exciting matchup between the Oakland Athletics and the New York Mets at Citi Field in New York. This game marks the beginning of a three-game interleague series, with the Athletics looking to reverse their fortunes against a team that swept them last season.
The Oakland Athletics travel to New York for their first visit to Citi Field since 2017, aiming to improve their record against the Mets, who previously dominated their last encounter.
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Athletics Seek Third Consecutive Win
The Oakland Athletics have gained momentum recently, winning their last two series against the Chicago White Sox and Toronto Blue Jays. Their most recent victory came last Sunday when they triumphed over the Jays with an 8-4 score, successfully clinching the series in Toronto.
Despite their success, the Athletics have struggled offensively, scoring only 19 runs in their last six games and posting a batting average of .225 with a .316 on-base percentage. On the bright side, their pitching has been stellar during this stretch, boasting a 2.55 ERA and a .187 batting average against.
Ross Stripling is set to take the mound for Oakland. The 34-year-old right-hander has faced challenges this season, holding a record of 2-11 with a 5.72 ERA. In his last three starts, he has allowed ten earned runs, raising concerns about his performance heading into this matchup.
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Mets Aim to End Losing Streak
The New York Mets are looking to bounce back after a disappointing three-game sweep at the hands of the Seattle Mariners, where they were outscored 22-1. This recent slump has left them struggling to find their rhythm, dropping two of their last three series and posting a 4-6 record in their last ten games.
During this stretch, the Mets have faced difficulties on both sides of the ball, recording a 4.18 ERA and a batting average of .229. Their offensive struggles have been highlighted by a lack of power, managing just seven home runs in 347 at-bats.
Paul Blackburn, a recent acquisition from Oakland, is expected to pitch for New York. The 30-year-old righty has performed well since his arrival, posting a 5-2 record with a 3.86 ERA. His two starts with the Mets have shown promise, allowing only two earned runs over 12 innings.
Strategic Bets for Athletics vs. Mets
With Blackburn facing his former team, the matchup adds an intriguing layer to the game. His familiarity with the Athletics could work to his advantage as he looks to deliver another solid performance. The Mets have found some success against Stripling in the past, with a combined 14 hits, including six doubles and a home run, in their previous encounters.
Although the Mets’ offense has struggled against right-handed pitchers recently, they are in a critical phase of the playoff race, trailing the final wild card spot in the National League by just half a game. This urgency could ignite their bats and provide a much-needed boost against the struggling Stripling.
