The Oakland Athletics are set to clash with the Texas Rangers, both teams eager to conclude their challenging seasons on a positive note. The A’s currently hold a 58-76 record, placing them near the bottom of the American League West Division, while the Rangers sit at 63-71, occupying third place in the division. Notably, the Rangers have been on a small upswing with three consecutive victories. In the upcoming matchup, the A’s will rely on JP Sears as their starting pitcher, who has struggled lately, allowing nine runs over his last three outings. Conversely, the Rangers will counter with Jon Gray on the mound.
A’s Pin Hopes on Sears and Lineup Revival
The A’s are looking to turn their season around and avoid finishing at the bottom of their division. JP Sears takes the mound in this crucial game, aiming to rectify a disappointing season where he has surrendered 75 runs across 144.3 innings. His statistics reveal an 18.7% Strikeout Rate and a concerning 4.35 expected ERA, suggesting that hitters have been able to capitalize on his mistakes.
While Sears has faced challenges on the mound, the A’s batting lineup has not provided much support, averaging only 4.03 runs per game. Brent Rooker stands out with an impressive .285/.362/.563 batting line, including 31 home runs, while Lawrence Butler contributes with a .248/.306/.471 line and 16 home runs. Unfortunately, the rest of the lineup has faltered, as only four active players have an OPS+ over 100, making it easier for opposing pitchers to manage the offense.
Rangers Seek Momentum with Gray and Offensive Firepower
The Rangers are facing a disappointing season, with playoff aspirations slipping away just a year after their triumphant campaign. Jon Gray will take the mound for Texas, but he has also struggled, giving up 50 runs in 98 innings. His expected opponent batting average stands at .282, and a 4.62 expected ERA indicates that hitters have found success against him this season.
Despite Gray’s difficulties, the Rangers’ offense has averaged 4.17 runs per game. Corey Seager shines with a .277/.355/.509 performance, contributing 29 home runs, while Josh Smith provides solid support with a .264/.351/.410 line and 12 home runs. However, the offensive inconsistency remains, as only four players have an OPS+ over 100, allowing opposing pitchers to limit their scoring potential.
Best Bets for Oakland Athletics vs. Texas Rangers
The A’s are eager to pull off an upset, but the Rangers come into the game riding a three-game winning streak. They are likely to capitalize on the struggles of JP Sears, who has given up nine runs in his last three starts. Expect Corey Seager, Josh Smith, and the rest of the Rangers lineup to generate offense against Sears. With Jon Gray on the mound, the Rangers should be able to contain the A’s lineup, allowing him to pitch effectively into the later innings before handing the game over to the bullpen with a lead. The Rangers are positioned to secure a victory at home, building on their recent success.
