Oakland Athletics vs Houston Astros Picks and Predictions July 23rd 2024

Astros, Athletics Each Looking for More from Their First Basemen

The spotlight will be on a respectable starting point as the Houston Astros and the Oakland Athletics proceed with their three-game series on Tuesday night. The two groups are looking for further developed exhibitions from their first basemen following an evening of botched open doors at the plate.

Monday’s Down Recap

On Monday night, the two groups oversaw eight hits, yet none came from their first basemen. The Athletics gained by their possibilities, going 3-for-7 with sprinters in scoring position to get a 4-0 triumph over the Astros.

Astros’ Setup Changes and A respectable starting point Issues

Aledmys Diaz’s Return

The Astros stood out as truly newsworthy before the game by advancing previous Oakland utility infielder Aledmys Diaz from the Florida Complex League. Diaz, who had marked a small time agreement only nine days sooner, was pushed into the starting setup at a respectable starting point. In spite of his fervor to rejoin the Astros, Diaz went 0-for-3 with a strikeout against his previous partner, A’s left-hander Hogan Harris.
“I basically feel like I never left,” Diaz said before the game. “Especially knowing the boys and (Astros manager Joe) Espada … so many memories. So I feel like normal being back in this clubhouse.”

Diaz was brought back partly due to the struggles of left-handed-hitting Jon Singleton, who has hit just .174 against left-handed pitchers this season. Singleton pinch-hit for Diaz in the ninth inning Monday after Oakland brought in All-Star righty closer Mason Miller, grounding out to end the game.

Singleton’s Performance

Singleton, who has been the regular first baseman for the Astros, has struggled overall, hitting .235 on the season. His inability to hit left-handers consistently has been a significant issue, prompting the Astros to explore other options.

Athletics’ First Base Situation

Nick Kurtz’s Signing

Coincidentally, the A’s designated Diaz for assignment shortly before drafting Wake Forest slugger Nick Kurtz with the fourth overall pick. Kurtz officially signed with the A’s on Monday and impressed during a pregame batting practice session, hitting a second-deck homer.

“I don’t know if there’s a word to really describe it,” Kurtz said about the experience. “This is awesome. This is what you dream of as a kid. This is why you put in all those hours for this kind of moment. I’m just so excited to be here. It’s been so much fun.”

Oakland’s Struggles at First Base

Oakland first basemen have hit just .199 this season. Converted outfielder Seth Brown, batting .191, went 0-for-3 with a walk in the series opener on Monday. Brown was subbing for injured Tyler Soderstrom, a converted catcher hitting .219.

If Kurtz is to get an opportunity to homer in a major league game at the Oakland Coliseum, it may need to happen soon. The A’s are planning to play their home games in Sacramento next season, with hopes of relocating to Las Vegas by 2028.

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Pitching Matchup

Houston’s Starter: Jake Bloss

Several players from the 2023 draft have already reached the majors, including rookie right-hander Jake Bloss (0-0, 4.70 ERA). Bloss, the Astros’ scheduled starter for Tuesday, will be making his third big-league start and first against the Athletics. He has pitched a total of 7 2/3 innings without a decision in two home wins — 14-11 over the Baltimore Orioles on June 21 and 6-3 over the Miami Marlins on July 11.

Oakland’s Starter: Osvaldo Bido

The Athletics will counter with right-hander Osvaldo Bido (1-1, 3.44 ERA). Bido earned a second start this season after posting a 1.72 ERA in his last six outings from the bullpen. The 28-year-old has never faced the Astros before.

Conclusion

Both the Astros and the Athletics are looking for more production from their first basemen as they continue their series. With new players like Aledmys Diaz and Nick Kurtz in the mix, and intriguing pitching matchups, Tuesday’s game promises to be a crucial test for both teams. As the Astros aim to solidify their lineup and the Athletics seek to build on their recent successes, fans can expect an exciting contest.