The Athletics delivered one of their most electrifying performances of the season yesterday, salvaging the final game of their three-game series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The A's offense exploded for four two-run home runs, giving starting pitcher J.T. Ginn more than enough cushion to dominate. Ginn allowed just one run on four hits over eight innings—the longest outing by any A's starter this season. It was the kind of statement win that can shift momentum for a team.
Now, the first-place Athletics head to Baltimore for a three-game weekend series against the Orioles, beginning tonight. After dropping their previous two series, these games are a golden opportunity for the A's to snap that skid and hold onto their lead atop the American League West. But the Orioles won't make it easy. Baltimore boasts a dangerous offense, headlined by Gunnar Henderson, Adley Rutschman, and marquee offseason addition Pete Alonso. Fresh off winning two of three against the Miami Marlins, the Orioles are looking to keep rolling.
On the mound for the A's tonight is left-hander Jacob Lopez, who has been the weakest link in the team's five-man rotation. The 28-year-old enters his seventh start with a 2-2 record, a 6.60 ERA, a 1.90 WHIP, and a troubling 23-to-22 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His last outing didn't inspire confidence: he allowed six runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings against the Cleveland Guardians. The A's briefly moved Lopez to the bullpen earlier this season, skipping one start before quickly putting him back in the rotation. If he struggles again tonight, it could be his last start for a while. The team may shift him back to the bullpen or send him to Triple-A to work on his command, potentially calling up another pitcher to take his spot.
Manager Mark Kotsay is rolling with the same starting lineup for the second straight day—a sign that this might be his preferred lineup against right-handed pitchers. Zack Gelof is starting at third base once again, and he's more than earned every at-bat with his recent production. For fans gearing up for tonight's matchup, it's the perfect time to rep your team with fresh gear and show your support from the stands or your living room.