Los Angeles Angels vs Oakland Athletics Picks and Predictions June 26th 2024

A’s Joey Estes, Evoking Memories for Manager, to Face Angels

A’s catcher Shea Langeliers has also been impressed with Estes’ presence on the mound. He highlighted Estes’ confidence in his fastball and his ability to locate it effectively.

“He’s got that mentality that he believes in his fastball, and rightfully so,” Langeliers said. “He locates it well. His arm slot allows him to get good vertical movement on it. The metrics are good on his heater. … I love the mentality of him being aggressive with his heater.”

Estes’ Challenge Against the Angels

Wednesday’s game will mark Estes’ first career appearance against the Angels, who have already clinched the series by winning the first two games. The Athletics are currently on a four-game losing streak, adding pressure on Estes to deliver a strong performance.

The Angels’ Pitching Situation

Roansy Contreras (1-0, 3.90 ERA) will open the game for the Angels in a bullpen strategy, a role necessitated by the season-ending injury to their Opening Day starter, Patrick Sandoval. Sandoval sustained a high-grade flexor tendon tear and torn ulnar collateral ligament in a recent game against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Contreras has struggled against the A’s in the past, holding a 0-1 record with a 27.00 ERA in two appearances. Angels manager Ron Washington acknowledged the challenge ahead but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to adapt.

“It is tough for everyone, especially (Sandoval), because he was starting to really, really compete, and then something like this happened,” Washington said. “You can’t control it. But now we know he’s got to get it fixed. We just got to continue to move on. I just told him the best of luck and that I love him. There’s not much more I can say.”

Miguel Sano’s Return

Adding to the intrigue, Angels third baseman/designated hitter Miguel Sano was activated from the injured list on Tuesday. After being sidelined since April 26 due to inflammation in his surgically repaired left knee and a subsequent burn injury, Sano grounded out as a pinch hitter in his return. He is expected to be in the starting lineup on Wednesday, providing a potential boost to the Angels’ offense.

Conclusion

As Joey Estes takes the mound, his performance will not only be crucial for the Athletics’ chances of snapping their losing streak but also a reminder of the legacy and potential that he carries. With the Angels adapting to their own challenges, Wednesday’s game promises to be a compelling matchup. Fans will be watching closely to see if Estes can continue to channel the spirit of Tim Hudson and deliver a memorable performance.

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