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Homer-Happy A’s Aim for Improbable Season-Series Win Against Orioles
The Oakland Athletics are on the brink of an unexpected achievement as they face the Baltimore Orioles in the final game of their series on Sunday in Oakland. Fueled by a recent surge in home runs, the A’s are looking to clinch the season series against one of the top teams in the league.
Oakland Athletics’ Power Surge
Recent Performance: The Athletics have been smashing home runs left and right, hitting 12 homers in their last five home games, which has helped them to a 4-1 record. This includes a dominant 19-8 victory over the Orioles on Saturday, highlighted by five home runs.
Key Players:
- Brent Rooker: Rooker, an All-Star hopeful, has been a major contributor, homering in three of the past five games, bringing his season total to 18.
- Supporting Cast: Other key contributors include Shea Langeliers, Lawrence Butler, and Max Schuemann, each with two homers, and Kyle McCann, Miguel Andujar, and Tyler Nevin, each with one.
Unique Moments: One of the standout moments was Kyle McCann hitting a home run off Baltimore’s backup catcher, James McCann, who pitched the eighth inning, adding to the A’s explosive performance.
Baltimore Orioles’ Challenge
Pitching Matchup:
- Grayson Rodriguez: The Orioles will start right-hander Grayson Rodriguez (10-3, 3.45 ERA), who has been solid, allowing only 10 homers in 15 starts this season. Rodriguez is coming off a strong outing, pitching 6 1/3 shutout innings in a win against Seattle.
Historical Context:
- Rodriguez vs. A’s: Rodriguez didn’t face the A’s earlier this season but did pitch against them in April 2023, allowing five runs over 4 1/3 innings in a game the Orioles eventually won.
Orioles’ Motivation and Distractions
All-Star Considerations: Several Orioles are in the running for All-Star selections, including Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman, who have already been voted in as starters. The announcement of the full All-Star rosters on Sunday could serve as a distraction for the team.
Recent Performances:
- Key Contributors: Ryan Mountcastle hit his 12th home run on Saturday, Jordan Westburg went 3-for-9 with two doubles, and Craig Kimbrel secured a save in Friday’s win, all making strong cases for All-Star consideration.
Mitch Spence’s Role
Pitching for the A’s:
- Mitch Spence: The A’s will counter with rookie right-hander Mitch Spence (5-4, 4.15 ERA), who earned his second major league win by pitching three no-hit innings against Baltimore in April. Spence is also coming off a solid performance, limiting the Los Angeles Angels to one run over 5 1/3 innings in his last start.
Conclusion
Sunday’s game is crucial for both teams. The A’s, powered by their recent home run binge, aim to pull off an improbable season-series win against the Orioles. Meanwhile, the Orioles are looking to bounce back, break even in the season series, and stay focused despite All-Star distractions. This matchup promises to be an exciting and competitive contest.
