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Sunday’s game between the Detroit Tigers and Oakland Athletics marks the finale of a three-game series at the historic Oakland Coliseum. As the Tigers (72-71) aim to close out the series with a win, the Athletics (62-81) prepare to say goodbye to their longtime home. With both teams struggling to drive in runs despite getting on base, this game will be pivotal for both sides.
Offensive Struggles: Tigers and A’s Leave Runners Stranded
Scoring has been tough for both teams throughout the series. The Tigers are getting hits but struggling when it counts—particularly with runners in scoring position. Detroit has notched 12 hits from players like Riley Greene, Colt Keith, and Jace Jung, but they’ve gone just 4-for-29 with runners in scoring position, leaving 22 runners stranded over the last two games.
The Athletics have faced similar struggles. Oakland has managed 21 hits in the series, led by Lawrence Butler and Brent Rooker, who each have four hits. Despite that, the A’s have been only slightly better with runners in scoring position, going 8-for-25 and leaving 17 men on base. Both teams will need to find a way to push across more runs in Sunday’s finale if they hope to end the series on a high note.
Tarik Skubal’s Emotional Farewell to the Coliseum
For Detroit’s ace Tarik Skubal, this series has been an emotional one. Born in nearby Hayward, California, Skubal grew up as a fan of the Oakland A’s, and the Coliseum holds a special place in his heart. While he didn’t get the decision in Friday’s 13-inning marathon, just being back in the Coliseum meant a lot to him.
“Some people might say it’s not the best venue, but I love it here,” Skubal said. “I’ve got a lot of memories at this park.”
With the A’s planning to move their home games to Sacramento next season, players like Skubal are reflecting on the venue’s history and what it has meant to them personally before the A’s make their permanent move to Las Vegas in 2028.
Pitching Matchup: Holton Likely to Start for Detroit, Ginn for Oakland
The Tigers haven’t officially named a starting pitcher for Sunday, but all signs point to Tyler Holton (5-1, 2.31 ERA) taking the mound. Holton pitched out of the bullpen in Friday’s series opener, retiring all four batters he faced in the ninth and 10th innings. He also started Monday’s bullpen game in San Diego, making him a strong candidate to get the ball in Sunday’s finale.
On the other side, Oakland will turn to right-hander J.T. Ginn (0-0, 4.30 ERA). Ginn is coming off one of his best outings of the season, having pitched six solid innings in a 2-2 tie against the Mariners last Tuesday. He allowed just five hits and struck out seven batters, showing plenty of promise as he continues to gain experience in the majors. Ginn will be looking to build on that performance and help the A’s finish their homestand on a positive note.
A’s Building Toward the Future
With the Athletics preparing to leave the Coliseum, they’ve been giving valuable playing time to their top prospects. One player who’s stood out recently is shortstop Jacob Wilson, who has shown poise beyond his years. Wilson has recorded three hits in his last two games and has drawn praise from A’s manager Mark Kotsay.
“He’s handling the game really well for a young player,” Kotsay said. “Some guys come up, and the game speeds up on them, but he’s been in control. His at-bats have been really solid.”
As the A’s continue to look ahead, developing their young talent will be critical for building a competitive roster in the future.
What to Watch For
- Can Detroit’s offense deliver? The Tigers have had opportunities to score but haven’t been able to cash in with runners on base. Can they finally break through and secure a series win?
- J.T. Ginn’s growth at the major league level: The young right-hander has shown promise in his first few starts. Will he continue his upward trajectory with another strong outing against Detroit?
- Tyler Holton’s role: Holton has been solid both out of the bullpen and as a starter. If he takes the mound, how deep can he go into the game?
- Farewell to the Coliseum: As the A’s prepare to move on from their longtime home, the nostalgia surrounding this series adds an extra layer of emotion for players and fans alike.
Tigers and A’s Look to End Series on a High Note
As the Tigers aim to secure a series win and the Athletics prepare to bid farewell to their longtime home, Sunday’s game will be full of emotion and opportunity. Both teams have struggled to capitalize on scoring chances, but with young players like J.T. Ginn and Jacob Wilson emerging for the A’s and Tyler Holton’s reliability for Detroit, it promises to be an exciting contest. With nostalgia in the air at the Coliseum, this game will be one to remember for players and fans alike.
