Happy Mother's Day, baseball fans! Sixteen years ago, Athletics legend and current broadcaster Dallas Braden delivered a perfect game on this very day. Now, the A's are looking to channel that same magic as they aim to complete a three-game sweep of the Baltimore Orioles and head home on a high note.

Today's Game 40 starter is right-hander Luis Severino, making his ninth start of the season. He carries a 2-3 record, a 4.15 ERA, and 43 strikeouts across 43.1 innings. Despite a tough-luck loss in his last outing—where he allowed just one run over five innings against the Phillies before the bullpen unraveled—Severino has been sharp. He'll be glad to be on the road again, where his performances have been noticeably stronger this season.

Manager Mark Kotsay is rolling with the same lineup that has powered the team to three straight wins. Catcher Shea Langeliers gets the nod for the third consecutive game, a strategic move with an off day on the horizon. Keep an eye on left fielder Tyler Soderstrom and shortstop Jacob Wilson, who both went 0-for-5 with three strikeouts yesterday. For Wilson—a hitter known for his discipline—it was his first three-strikeout game in the majors. That tough outing could be just the spark he needs to tighten up his approach at the plate.

Meanwhile, there's buzz around a potential call-up. Outfield prospect Henry Bolte is tearing it up at Triple-A Las Vegas, going an incredible 12-for-12 with two homers in each of his last two games. He's knocking on the big-league door, but the A's have a crowded outfield right now. With Lawrence Butler struggling offensively, it's a logjam that could soon force a decision.