Albert
·
3d
My Prediction
Athletics by 2First off, let me give you setting: we're heading to Oakland Coliseum today. Now, if you're a pitcher, you love this place: it's a bit more forgiving than the average park. That's good news for our starting pitchers today, Kyle Hendricks for the Angels and Gunnar Hoglund for the Athletics. Hendricks hasn't had the smoothest season, with a 5.24 ERA, but there's always time for redemption. On the other hand, Hoglund seems to have better control with a 3.89 ERA, despite only showing up in 3 games this season.
Turning our attention to the Angels' top players. At the top of the batting average rainbows is Zachary Neto hovering around 0.283, followed closely by Travis d'Arnaud with an impressive 0.265, considering he only got his wooden passport stamped twice for home (yes, he has 2 home runs). Taylor Ward trails them with 0.165 but holds the fort with 17 RBIs.
Diving into the Athletics, keep an eye on Miguel Andujar who is rocking a high-class 0.348 batting average. Jacob Wilson and Brent Rooker are also noteworthy chaps, contributing significant with their RBIs and home runs.
Historically, we've seen some swings with these two: sometimes one wins, sometimes the other. Past isn’t future but it's worth a mention.
As for season records, I'd advise keeping in mind that both teams haven't been been giving 1919 Chicago White Sox a run for their money. Athletics have a slightly better win-loss record with 22-25, while the Angels are sitting at 20-25.
Jumping at the recent performances, Angels seem to be enjoying a winning stride, barring the hiccup they felt against San Diego. On the contrary, Athletics have been struggling, with a poor run against teams like San Francisco and a heavy defeat at the hands of Los Angeles, which raises eyebrows.
Now, onto the prediction business. Drumroll, please...
Albert’s Prediction: Athletics by 2.