A’s Battle Blue Jays in Exciting Sutter Series
The A’s hosted the Toronto Blue Jays from July 11 to 13, 2025, at Sutter Health Park for an exciting and tightly contested three-game series. Fans witnessed veteran pitching, youthful firepower, heroic moments, and a dramatic shift in momentum as the American League East’s top contender clashed three times with a retooling A’s squad led by over a half dozen young stars who might just lea the club to contention if they can continue to play together.
The opener delivered non-stop action, with Max Scherzer returning to form and the Blue Jays edging out Oakland 7–6. Toronto exploded for six unearned runs in a wild fifth inning, turning a tight game into a 7–1 lead before the A’s surged late with three homers courtesy of Nick Kurtz, Tyler Soderstrom, and Max Muncy, who connected in the seventh and ninth innings. Unfortunately, despite the great rally, the A’s fell just short. Fans were entertained and on the edge of their seats though, and that’s what it’s all about.
Scherzer struck out eight over six innings, securing his first win in nearly a year. Meanwhile, Luis Severino battled through 4⅔ innings with eight punchouts but was tagged with the loss. The game featured 22 total hits, nine extra-base hits, and remains one of the most entertaining near-misses in recent A’s history.
Oakland rebounded on July 12, taking a 4–3 win in a tight contest. Jacob Lopez delivered a strong outing for the Blue Jays, but the A’s bats proved timely. Late offense was the theme: Oakland scored in the eighth to tie, then got the go-ahead run in extras thanks to clutch hitting from their middle order.
Mason Miller closed out the game with a clean ninth, reinforcing his growing reputation as a top-tier closer. Given how sharp he is at closing, one must wonder whether he can come in earlier, or whether he’s ready for a start. The win evened the series and marked a key morale boost for a youthful A’s unit keen to prove its mettle.
In the rubber match on July 13, Toronto returned to form with a 6–3 win to clinch the series 2–1. The Blue Jays capitalized early, scoring two runs in the third and another in the fifth. Their bullpen neutralized a late rally, holding off the threat as the A’s scored once in the sixth and twice more in the ninth.
Jeffrey Springs took the loss despite pitching well, while Blue Jays starter Jose Berríos bounced back from a previous rough outing with six innings of solid work. Ultimately, the visitors' bullpen secured three innings of scoreless relief, sealing the victory and series win.
Throughout the series, Sutter Health Park proved to be an amazing stage for big moments. The atmosphere crackled under stadium lights and hot summer air. Proximity to the field amplified every homer, diving catch, and strikeout, giving fans an intimate experience usually reserved for Triple-A action. That makes sense because it’s a Triple-A stadium. However, fans have an opportunity to embrace the special circumstance. Rather than criticizing what the venue isn’t relative to MLB standards, fans should applaud and take full advantage of the special intimate surroundings.
When there’s a game in town, the Rivertown establishments buzz with pre- and post-game energy, and the ballpark’s food stalls are busy. Despite being designed for minor‑league baseball, the venue rises to the occasion. Find a better kept field anywhere. The grounds crew is unquestionably the best in the business.
The A’s begin a challenging road stretch that begins July 18 versus the Cleveland Guardians. Then they stay on the road and travel to Arlington, Texas for a series versus the Texas Rangers. That will be followed by four games in Houston versus the Astros. They don’t return home until July 28 when they take on the Seattle Mariners. The First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM Pacific time.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan, Jason Reed, and Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan, Jason Reed, and Ahsan Awan for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Jason reed can be found on X as @fieldofdd and on Instagram as @fieldofdaydreams. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
Capital Clash: A’s and Braves Duel in West Sac
The A’s and Atlanta Braves collided for a three-game series at Sutter Health Park from July 8 through July 10, 2025, delivering an electrifying set of games packed with power, late-inning drama, and eye-catching performances from both veterans and emerging stars. The series offered a vivid snapshot of two franchises in contrasting stages, one rebuilding, one retooling, and both meeting on relatively neutral soil in California’s capital.
Over three nights, fans at the sold-out Triple-A stadium witnessed a bit of everything: a fireworks-filled blowout, a home run derby by Atlanta’s elite, and a walk-off moment that might just linger as one of the most emotional highlights of the A’s 2025 season.
The A’s set the tone early in Game 1 with a first-inning barrage, scoring five runs before many fans had settled into their seats. Lawrence Butler sparked the rally with a stunning inside-the-park home run, slicing a ball into deep center that caromed wildly off the wall. Brent Rooker and Max Muncy followed with back-to-back blasts, and in the second inning, Nick Kurtz launched a grand slam into the right-field bleachers. By the end of the third inning, Oakland had built an 8–0 lead.
Starting pitcher Jeffrey Springs delivered six strong innings for the A’s, allowing just one run while keeping the Braves’ dangerous lineup guessing. Atlanta’s young right-hander Didier Fuentes endured a nightmare start, tagged for eight runs while recording just three outs. The A’s took full advantage of fastballs left over the plate and made the most of short dimensions and dry summer air. Said another way, it was hot and dusty, and the ball hung over the plate like a lame duck in slow motion.
By the time the final out was recorded, the A’s had tallied 13 hits and 10 runs, putting an emphatic stamp on the opener and extending Atlanta’s long and frustrating losing streak in California.
Unfortunately for the green and yellow, Atlanta responded in resounding fashion in Game 2. They turned the tables with a 9–2 rout of their own. Ronald Acuña, Jr. ignited the offense with a towering leadoff homer in the first inning and followed it with another opposite-field shot in the fourth. The Braves piled on five home runs in total, including a three-run blast by rookie catcher Drake Baldwin and a solo shot from Austin Riley.
Bryce Elder gave Atlanta exactly what it needed on the mound, scattering seven hits over 6 2/3 innings and limiting the A’s to just two runs. Notably, the A’s briefly rallied in the fourth inning, but they failed to mount sustained pressure against the Braves’ pitching staff.
The win snapped Atlanta’s 13-game losing streak in the state of California and provided a much-needed morale boost for a team that has struggled to find consistency this season. Their offense looked sharper and more patient, drawing walks and pouncing on mistakes from A’s starter Mitch Spence, who labored through six innings under steady pressure.
Then came Game 3. The rubber match delivered the most memorable drama of the series. Tyler Soderstrom emerged as the star, launching a three-run homer in the first inning and later driving in the winning run in the bottom of the 11th with a sharp single to right field that scored Brent Rooker from second base.
It was also Lawrence Butler’s 25th birthday, as well as his bobblehead night. Word is the commemorative mini statue is awesome. Being 25 and playing baseball for a living isn’t half bd either.
The A’s bullpen was lights-out down the stretch, combining for six innings of one-run ball after JP Sears gave them five solid frames to start the game. Sears struck out six and worked out of two early jams to keep Atlanta within reach.
The Braves fought back with a two-run home run from Jurickson Profar in the fourth and a solo blast from Ozzie Albies in the seventh to tie the game at four. But they couldn’t break through in extra innings, hampered by aggressive base running and a lack of timely contact.
Mason Miller, the A’s fireballing closer, lit up the radar gun in the top of the ninth, touching 104 mph on a fastball that struck out Acuña looking. That moment, combined with Soderstrom’s walk-off heroics, sent the crowd into a frenzy and clinched the series for the A’s, two games to one.
The series win was a confidence booster for the A’s, who showed flashes of offensive depth and bullpen resiliency. After dropping two of three to the Giants over the holiday weekend, the bounce-back performance underscored the growth of their young core.
Lawrence Butler’s inside-the-park homer was one of the highlights of the season, while Tyler Soderstrom continues to cement himself as the offensive centerpiece of the A’s lineup. His five RBIs over the series and cool-headed performance in extra innings on Thursday gave fans plenty to cheer about.
Jeffrey Springs and JP Sears combined to give the A’s 11 strong innings across their two starts, while Mason Miller’s performance out of the bullpen once again showed why he’s viewed as one of the most electric young arms in baseball.
For the Braves, Ronald Acuña, Jr.’s pair of home runs in Game 2 reminded everyone why he remains one of the most feared hitters in the league. But Atlanta’s inability to contain opposing bats in the bookend games, and a shaky back end of the bullpen, remain issues as they try to claw back into postseason contention.
Sutter Health Park, a venue originally built for Triple-A baseball, once again proved itself a worthy stage for major-league drama. Attendance remained strong throughout the series, with fans turning out in force despite sweltering July temperatures that touched triple digits by the final game.
Local businesses continued to benefit from the presence of MLB in town. Riverfront restaurants and breweries were packed with fans before and after games, and the team’s temporary residency in West Sacramento has clearly injected life into the local sports scene.
Though the stadium has its limitations, it has brought fans closer to the action, both literally and emotionally. The intimacy of the venue added to the intensity of each moment, and the walk-off finish on Thursday felt even more theatrical in the tight confines of a roaring hometown crowd.
The A’s will look to build on the momentum as they continue their homestand. With a young roster showing flashes of maturity, the team is becoming harder to overlook, even in a year defined by relocation and long-term transition.
Meanwhile, the Braves return home bruised but not broken. A series win escaped their grasp, but the offense has begun to show signs of life. If they can stabilize the rotation and keep Acuña hot, a second-half surge remains within reach.
Three games. Twenty-nine runs. Nine home runs. One unforgettable walk-off. The A’s and Braves gave Sacramento fans a taste of everything: dominance, redemption, and late-inning suspense. In a summer where every series feels like a chapter in an evolving story, this one offered something rare: the confluence of hope and heartbreak, together with a little magic.
The A’s begin a new series today, July 11. Three games versus the Toronto Blue Jays. Gametime temperature is expected to be at least 102. How Toronto will respond to the heat will be determined quickly, as will the A’s ability to remain strong, focused, and capable of winning in what it now the seventh of nine straight at home. The First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 PM Pacific time.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan and Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan and Ahsan Awan for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
I-80 Series Heats Up: A’s and Giants Battle in Scorching West Sac
The longtime rivalry between the A’s and Giants took a new twist over the Fourth of July weekend as the two teams squared off for a three-game series at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. Amid a backdrop of fireworks, sold-out crowds, summer pageantry, and sweltering heat, the “Interstate 80 Series” delivered plenty of drama, with the A’s grabbing the opener before the Giants stormed back to win the next two.
This was no ordinary series of baseball games. It was a clash steeped in Bay Area history, now played out in California’s capital, with Sacramento and central valley baseball fans treated to an incredible showcase of major league action in a minor-league venue brimming with a different intensity during some of the hottest days of the year so far. That intensity was the magnanimity of MLB; after all, just as the name reads, it’s major league.
Independence Day belonged to the A’s, who exploded for 11 runs to thrash the Giants in the series opener. Lefty starter JP Sears was dominant, delivering six shutout innings while scattering just four hits. The A’s lineup backed him with a relentless attack, including home runs from rookies Nick Kurtz and Denzel Clarke, who both showcased the raw power that has given A’s fans a glimpse of the franchise’s promising future.
Giants veteran Justin Verlander, pitching on the 20th anniversary of his MLB debut, had little to celebrate. He surrendered six earned runs by the fourth inning and failed to record a strikeout. It was his 14th straight start without a win, extending a dismal streak that has clouded his late-career return to the Bay Area. At 42, many believe he’s too old, washed up, and unworthy of start duties. On this night, he went a meager three innings before the call was made to make a change.
Defensive miscues compounded San Francisco’s troubles. Three errors, two in the infield and one on a misjudged fly ball, allowed the A’s to pile on, silencing the large contingent of traveling Giants fans in the stands.
The holiday crowd was the largest of the A’s short tenure at Sutter Health Park, officially announced at 12,322. The stadium, better known as the home of the Triple-A River Cats, buzzed with energy as fireworks burst overhead and the A’s gave their fans something to cheer about in a season marked mostly by transition and turbulence.
After a forgettable opener, the Giants bounced back in Game 2 behind a gutsy performance from starter Logan Webb and a reinvigorated lineup. Webb worked out of early trouble to go five innings, while the Giants’ bats came to life, led by shortstop Willy Adames. The veteran infielder drilled a solo homer and added two RBIs, continuing a hot stretch that has solidified his role as a centerpiece of San Francisco’s offense.
The Giants also got key contributions from Tyler Fitzgerald and Rafael Devers, each adding a pair of hits. The game was tight through five innings before the Giants broke it open with a three-run sixth, aided by a wild pitch and a defensive lapse from the A’s infield.
Luis Severino, who started for the A’s, was relatively solid through four but once again unraveled in the middle innings. It would be generous to say that his command faded, and the Giants capitalized, showing the kind of patience and clutch hitting that eluded them the night before. The truth is that he fell off a cliff in increasingly characteristic fashion. More and more, he is demonstrating that he can’t be counted on for more than 3-4 innings, and that means he probably shouldn’t have starter duties.
The win evened the series and restored balance to a rivalry that has remained intense despite the teams now playing in separate cities. For the A’s, the loss was a reminder of the inconsistency that has plagued them all season.
The finale on Sunday provided another showcase for Willy Adames, who capped his stellar weekend with a go-ahead homer and three RBIs in a 6–2 Giants victory. Adames homered in the fourth inning and later drew two bases-loaded walks, becoming the first Giants shortstop since Rich Aurilia in 2000 to notch back-to-back multi-RBI games.
San Francisco starter Hayden Birdsong, a promising rookie, turned in a composed five-inning performance, allowing just one run and striking out six. His fastball command and poise under pressure helped stymie the A’s offense, which never regained the explosiveness it displayed in Game 1.
Tyler Soderstrom provided the lone bright spot for the A’s, launching his 15th home run of the season, a solo shot in the fifth that briefly cut the Giants’ lead in half. But San Francisco’s bullpen slammed the door, retiring nine of the final ten A’s hitters to seal the series win.
The weekend closed with a celebratory mood for Giants fans, many of whom made the drive up I-80 to witness their team take two of three in what is truly their own triple A house, but that temporarily doubles as enemy territory.
Though temporary, the A’s residence in West Sacramento has already left an indelible mark. Sutter Health Park, originally built for minor league action, rose to the occasion. The ballpark has brimmed with character and charm, with expanded bleacher sections and festive food stalls giving it a county-fair-meets-ballgame ambiance. On the field, there may not be a better maintained plot of sports grass anywhere. The grounds crew has done, and continues to do, a job s incredible that it’s truly noting short of miraculous.
Local businesses, bars, and restaurants thrived during the Giants’ visit, with many hosting viewing parties and postgame celebrations. Drake’s: The Barn, a popular riverside venue, threw nightly events to coincide with each game, featuring DJs, pop-up food vendors, and live screen broadcasts. The July 4 game brought in an unprecedented wave of tourists and locals, further embedding MLB culture into the Sacramento summer.
Players were more measured in their praise. While the crowds were enthusiastic, some expressed frustration with one thing or another. Frankly, they should be ashamed. Whether it was snobby entitlement or just some simple ignorance, the fans who complained really didn’t appreciate all the positives; and sadly, they weren’t willing or able to listen to anyone who tried to point anything out that deviated from their sour view. Still, the energy was undeniable, and for fans in Northern California’s heartland, this series was a rare treat.
For the Giants, the series win keeps them within striking distance in the National League West, and with Adames heating up, their lineup looks ready to support their young pitching core down the stretch.
The A’s, now deep into their transitional phase ahead of their planned move to Las Vegas, continue to showcase young talent while struggling to find consistency. But if this weekend proved anything, it’s that the team can still draw excitement, and competition, under the right spotlight. The truth is the A’s can beat anyone. They’ve beaten nearly every club in the league. Their issue is consistency and pitching depth. Add just three medium high quality pitchers who can go a solid six innings and this team has 20 more wins and a secure shot at the playoffs.
Returning to the I-80 series itself, in a city that had long dreamed of big-league baseball, the 2025 Fourth of July weekend delivered. Whether it was the booming fireworks, the slugging shortstops, or the tightrope pitching performances, Sacramento witnessed a rivalry reborn. For fans of both teams, the memories of this sun-soaked weekend under Sutter Health Park’s lights will linger far beyond the box score.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan and Jason Reed for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan and Jason Reed for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Jason Reed can be found on X as @fieldofdd and on Instagram as @fieldofdaydreams. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
A’s Surge with Rookie Firepower, Guardians Snap Back to Win Series
Over a sun-drenched weekend at Sutter Health Park, the A’s played host to the Cleveland Guardians. The three-game set from June 20–22, 2025, showcased the swift rise of rookie Nick Kurtz, a dominant outing from Jeffrey Springs, and Cleveland’s methodical pitching mastery.
Opening the series, the A’s leaned on a stellar performance by veteran right-hander Jeffrey Springs, who navigated 7⅓ innings, allowing only three hits and one run with six strikeouts. It was his best outing since May, marking a solid return to form as the A’s won the series opener 5-1.
However, the spark wasn’t just on the mound. Nick Kurtz launched his 10th home run of the season, a 406-foot shot to left-center in the first inning, continuing an improbable hot streak: his fifth home run in six games. The A’s offense clicked into gear: two runs in the second thanks to infield miscues by Cleveland, and another in the seventh on a Brent Rooker single. Tyler Soderstrom contributed with a key stolen base, later scoring on a Luis Urías single.
The A’s defense also made its presence felt, notably through standout grabs by Denzel Clarke in foul territory. When Mason Miller closed in the ninth, the crowd erupted. The A’s had taken a crucial opener, and they did so riding both rookie energy and veteran poise.
Guardians LHP Luis Ortiz responded with a gem in Game 2: six innings, 10 strikeouts, and only two hits allowed. Cleveland erupted for all four runs in a decisive second inning, highlighted by a rally that began with a Bo Naylor RBI double and finished by a Jose Ramírez RBI single, his 900th career RBI as the Guardians snapped back to win the game 4-2.
The A’s offense stalled early but showed fight with RBI doubles by Austin Wynns and a clutch sacrifice fly from veteran Max Muncy in the eighth. Despite tallying five hits, the A’s couldn’t push through. Ortiz held firm, Cleveland secured the win, and the tone of the series shifted.
Sunday’s finale brought another pitching duel, this time with Guardians RHP Slade Cecconi dominating seven scoreless innings: six hits, no runs, and three strikeouts. The Guardians capitalized early with a 2-run second inning, followed by an insurance run in the fifth, as the Guardians took both the game, 3-0, and the series, 2-1.
The A’s broke through with a bases-loaded chance in the ninth, but Cleveland’s Emmanuel Clase slammed the door with a strikeout of Max Muncy, completing a polished weekend performance. The shutout truly underscored Cleveland’s command of the series finale.
For the A’s, the series spotlighted both promise and peril. Kurtz’s emergence is a narrative note of optimism: young, clutch, and capable of generating excitement. Springs’ veteran presence showed that even amid pitching uncertainty, there are moments of reliability. However, stark inconsistencies remain. The offense, outside its heroes, was largely neutralized, and bullpen depth remains a serious question mark.
Cleveland, meanwhile, took a series that felt potentially ripe for an A’s upset and flipped it with veteran savvy and pitching depth. Their young arms, Ortiz and Cecconi, provided the foundation, and their offense executed where the A’s could not.
This split leaves both teams at a crossroads: the A’s with glimpses of a future worth building toward, the Guardians with a roadmap of pitching-led success. As the schedule marches on into July, both teams will reflect on a weekend that offered a little of everything.
The A’s return home to Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, CA on Friday, July 4, at 7:05 PM, to face the San Francisco Giants in a three-game weekend series the rivalry nature of which is sure to bring large crowds and intense energy to both the stadium and the city.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan and Jason Reed for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan and Jason Reed for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Jason Reed can be found on X as @fieldofdd and on Instagram as @fieldofdaydreams. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
A’s and Astros Trade Blows in Wild Four-Game Series
In a series that encapsulated the drama, unpredictability, and emotional highs of Major League Baseball, the A’s and Astros delivered four games that will linger in memory far longer than their standings might suggest. Taking place from June 16 to 19, 2025, at Sutter Health Park, the A's temporary home in West Sacramento, this series featured a breakout rookie performance, powerful offensive outbursts, and a glimpse of what’s to come for both franchises.
The A’s began the series with fireworks, and not the kind anyone expected from a team trying to rebuild and stabilize its footing in a new city. On June 16, rookie first baseman Nick Kurtz launched a dramatic walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth to secure a 3–1 win. Facing the mighty Astros, one of the American League’s most complete and experienced teams, the A’s victory was as symbolic as it was shocking.
The game began with Houston's José Altuve sending a message via a solo home run in the first inning, but the A's JJ Bleday answered in the fifth to tie it. The A’s bullpen, long a weak spot, held strong with stellar relief from J.T. Ginn and fireballer Mason Miller. Then came Kurtz, who blasted a 2-run shot that soared over right-center, igniting the crowd.
If Game 1 was a statement, Game 2 confirmed the A's were not bluffing. In a virtual rerun, the A’s again entered the ninth inning tied at 1–1. Again, it was Kurtz who broke the deadlock, this time with a 447-foot missile off Houston reliever Bryan Abreu, earning his second walk-off home run in as many nights. The baseball world took notice: a rookie making MLB history with back-to-back walk-off blasts against one of the league’s premier teams? That’s the kind of story that transcends box scores.
“Mental toughness, that’s what I focus on,” said Kurtz postgame. “But yeah… two in a row? That’s something I’ll never forget.”
Pitching continued to be a pleasant surprise for the A’s early in the series, with lefty Mitch Spence delivering five solid innings and the bullpen keeping the game within reach. For a franchise starved for positive headlines and navigating a controversial transition to Las Vegas in 2028, Kurtz’s emergence gave fans a tangible reason for optimism.
As any seasoned baseball watcher knows, veteran teams don’t take embarrassment lightly, and Houston responded with a fury.
In Game 3, the Astros pounded the A’s beleaguered pitching staff for 13 runs on 20 hits, cruising to a 13–3 win that was never in doubt after the fourth inning. Cam Smith led the charge with two home runs, while Mauricio Dubón, Cooper Hummel, and Jordan Walker also added long balls. It was the kind of offensive statement one expects from a team vying for postseason dominance.
Houston starter Framber Valdez was efficient, limiting the A’s to two earned runs over six innings. Meanwhile, the A’s pitching woes were on full display. Their 113 home runs allowed through June led all of baseball and continued to climb during this series. Ryan Gusto and the bullpen were shelled mercilessly, giving up multiple crooked-number innings.
The finale on June 19 looked much the same. After keeping the game relatively close through five innings, the A’s imploded in the sixth, surrendering seven runs, including back-to-back three-run home runs from Altuve and Victor Caratini. Valdez again took the mound for Houston and picked up his eighth win of the year, cruising through the A’s order with controlled precision.
While the A’s couldn’t match Houston’s firepower over the last two games, Kurtz once again provided a silver lining. He added his third home run of the series, a solo shot in the ninth, giving fans at Sutter Health Park a final thrill in a lopsided 11-4 defeat.
There were no series sweeps here, but rather a tale of two halves: the A’s youthful exuberance and surprising heroics gave them the first two games, while Houston’s experience, depth, and offensive might allowed them to crush their way to a split.
For Nick Kurtz, this four-game stretch could mark the beginning of a meteoric rise. Over the course of the series, he went 6-for-15 with three home runs, including two walk-offs and a late solo blast in Game 4. His ability to deliver under pressure, especially against elite competition, is already drawing comparisons to the league’s best young sluggers.
“Nick’s the real deal,” said A’s manager Mark Kotsay. “You can’t teach poise like that.”
On the other side, Framber Valdez showed why he remains one of the most reliable arms in the American League. Across Games 3 and 4, he held the A’s to four earned runs over 12 innings, all while his offense exploded for 24 total runs. Altuve, Peña, Caratini, and others continued to demonstrate why Houston remains a powerhouse built for October baseball.
The A’s, despite their pitching struggles and uneven performance, exit this series with newfound energy and a potential cornerstone player in Kurtz. The challenge now will be consistency — can the offense support him, and can the pitching stabilize even slightly?
Houston, on the other hand, will consider this series both a wake-up call and a reaffirmation. Dropping two tight games reminded them not to overlook anyone, while the back-end blowouts confirmed that, when locked in, few teams can match their talent.
As both teams head into July, the A’s will try to channel the electricity of Kurtz’s bat into a strong second half. For Houston, it’s business as usual — but now, with a clear warning: Don’t let your guard down, especially against a team with nothing to lose and a rookie with something to prove.
The A’s return home to Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, CA on Friday, June 20, at 7:05 PM, to face the Clevland Guardian in a three-game weekend series.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan and Conrad Melendez for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan and Conrad Melendez for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Conrad Melendez can be found on X as @bionicslugg and on Instagram as @cam_spectrum. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
A’s Over O’s as Improved Pitching and Strong Bats Deliver
The A’s hosted the Baltimore Orioles for a three-game series at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento from June 6 to June 8, 2025. This series marked the first-ever meeting between these two teams at this venue, as the A's are temporarily playing in West Sacramento while awaiting the completion of their new stadium in Las Vegas.
The A’s edged out the Orioles 5–4 in the first game. The offense came alive in the middle innings, with a four-run third inning providing a significant lead. Brent Rooker played a pivotal role, hitting a three-run homer in the third inning and later adding a solo shot in the fifth, marking his first career multi-homer game. Denzel Clarke also made a highlight-reel catch in the outfield, showcasing the A's defensive prowess. He actually slammed into the wall at full speed and nearly got injured. Mason Miller secured the win with a blazing five-out save, helping the A’s snap the Orioles' six-game winning streak.
The Orioles bounced back in the second game of the series, defeating the A’s 7–4. Ryan O'Hearn, making his Orioles debut, contributed significantly with two hits and three RBIs, including a two-run single in the second inning and a sacrifice fly in a four-run third inning. Despite a strong start from the A's, their offense faltered in the later innings, and the Orioles capitalized on key opportunities to secure the win.
The final game of the series saw the Athletics bounce back with a 5–1 victory. The A's pitching staff delivered a strong performance, limiting the Orioles to just one run. The A's offense did its job, with timely hitting and solid base running. This win allowed the A’s to take two of three games and win the series. It was also Brent Rooker’s bobblehead release day, so fans had an extra special treat complete with a rolling career home run counter that is sure to continue rising as the season continues.
Over the three games, the Athletics showcased a balanced approach. Brent Rooker's offensive contributions were a highlight, as he led the team with multiple home runs and RBIs. For the Orioles, Ryan O'Hearn's debut added a spark to their offense, and their pitching staff managed to contain the A's in the second game. Despite the loss in the final game, their overall performance in the series was commendable. The A’s will look to build on their momentum from the final game, focusing on consistency in both pitching and hitting. The Orioles, while facing challenges in the series, will aim to regroup and continue their season.
The A’s are on the road until June 16, when they return home to face the Houston Astros in a four-game series to be played entirely at night. That will be immediately followed by a three-game series versus the Cleveland Guardians scheduled for June 20-22. The final game of the Guardians series will be played in the afternoon.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan, Ahsan Awan, and Jason Reed for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan, Ahsan Awan, and Jason Reed for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @lngn_media. Jason Reed can be found on X as @fieldofdd and on Instagram as @fieldofdaydreams. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
A’s Bounce Back vs Twins, Troubles Persist
The 2025 Major League Baseball season has been a challenging one for the A’s. After a tumultuous 2024 season marked by relocation plans and disappointing performances, the A's entered 2025 with hopes of rebuilding and finding stability. However, the team's struggles have persisted, both on and off the field.
The 2025 campaign has been characterized by a series of setbacks. As of early June, the team has managed only 23 wins, placing them at the bottom of the American League West standings. Inconsistency appeared to be the biggest issue, with the offense failing to produce timely hits and the pitching staff unable to maintain leads. That has not improved. This lack of cohesion has led to a series of losses, including a nine-game losing streak that has dampened the team's morale to a point where it is audible from the wells, visible from some fan seating, and surely felt throughout the dugout, if not the clubhouse as well.
Off the field, the A's are navigating the complexities of their temporary relocation to West Sacramento. Sutter Health Park, a top tier MiLB Triple-A stadium, is serving as their home for the 2025 through 2027 seasons. While the move was intended to be a temporary solution, it has presented challenges. The facility's outfield warning track, measuring an atypical 25 feet, has caused confusion among outfielders, leading to misplays and extended innings for opponents. Additionally, the team's branding efforts have been inconsistent, with merchandise initially avoiding references to Sacramento or their anticipated future home in Las Vegas. Recently, however, the A's have begun to acknowledge their new location through team merchandise, offering apparel branded with "Sacramento" and local symbols. These changes reflect a gradual embrace of their temporary home, although whether this will improve fan engagement remains uncertain.
From June 2 to June 5, the A’s hosted the Minnesota Twins. The series highlighted the A's ongoing struggles. In the opening game on June 2, the Athletics fell to the Twins with a score of 10-4. A six run second set the tone, and the Twins never looked back.
The next day, the A’s suffered another defeat, with the Twins securing a 10-3 victory. The A’s actually led until the sixth, when pitching fell off a cliff and there was no coming back from there.
On June 4, the A's faced a 6-1 loss, marking their ninth consecutive defeat. A notable moment in this game was a fan's daring dive for a foul ball, which provided a brief highlight in an otherwise dismal performance. The A’s pitching staff continued to struggle but also seemed to stabilize more. Unfortunately, the offense was unable to produce.
The final game of the series on June 5 saw the A’s finally snap their losing streak with a 14-3 rout of the Twins. Tyler Soderstrom delivered a standout performance, hitting two home runs and driving in six RBIs. The A's offense erupted for 14 runs, providing a much-needed boost to the team's morale.
While the A’s 2025 season has been fraught with challenges, the team's recent victory over the Twins offered a glimmer of hope. The performance of young players like Tyler Soderstrom suggests that there is potential for growth and improvement. However, for the A's to turn their season around, they will need to address their deficiencies and find ways to perform consistently at a high level. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the A’s can build on their recent success or if their struggles will continue to define their season.
Up next, the Baltimore Orioles. That series begins tonight at Sutter Health Park. While the A’s are currently 24-40 overall, the Orioles aren’t much better. They’re 25-36 overall. This is a winnable series. This is a series that should be swept. These teams are more or less even, and with the games being in West Sacramento, the home team should be favored. Bats need to stay hot, but pitching needs to stay off the cliff. The first game begins at 7:05 PM Pacific time.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Robert Longan, Tia Lee, Ahsan Awan, and Conrad Melendez for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan, Tia Lee, Ahsan Awan, and Conrad Melendez for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Tia Lee can be found on Instagram as @tiaraecreative. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @robbielonganphotography. Conrad Melendez can be found on X as @bionicslugg and on Instagram as @Cam_Spectrum. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
Despite Dropping Two, A's Break Losing Streak vs Phillies
The Oakland Athletics and the Philadelphia Phillies faced off in a three-game series from May 23 to 25, 2025, at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California. The series showcased contrasting narratives for both teams: the Phillies extended their impressive winning streak, while the Athletics continued to grapple with a challenging season marked by a losing streak that stood at nine games.
The series opener was great, until it wasn’t. The Phillies scored one in the first, but then it at 1-0 until the ninth inning. The A’s bats couldn’t get it done, but the mound certainly held strong. The Phillies narrowly defeated the A’s 4-3. They added 3 in the ninth. Trea Turner led the Phillies' offense with a home run and three hits, while Zack Wheeler continued his dominant pitching form, extending his scoreless streak to 22⅔ innings. The A’s, despite a valiant effort that included a three-run shot in the ninth, fell short, with Brent Rooker providing a bright spot by extending his hitting streak. Unfortunately for the A’s, their losing streak would extend to 10 games.
Game 2 ended 9-6 in 11 innings, but it was thrilling until the end. The A’s took a 2-0 lead in the first and extended that to 5-2 by the end of the sixth. In fact, they led 5-3 after the stretch. Then came the pitching changes. It all went downhill from there. The Phillies tied things up, the game went into extra innings, and while the A’s still had a chance, the mound melted down in the top of the ninth, more or less sealing their fate. And with that, the A’s losing streak extended as far as the night’s final inning count: 11. Kyle Schwarber played a pivotal role, hitting his 18th home run and delivering a go-ahead two-run double in the 11th inning. Max Kepler's ninth-inning home run had briefly tied the game for the A's, but the Phillies' late-game heroics ensured their ninth consecutive win.
The final game of the series, played today, saw the A’s go up three runs in the first inning. Things looked suddenly miraculous, especially given the way the previous two games ended. However, the men in red would claw their way back with runs in the second, third and fifth. All tied at 3 heading into the eighth, the Phillies would score one to take the lead 4-3, but then the A’s would answer and tack on two of their own, thus recapturing the lead at 5-4. The Phillies were held scoreless in the ninth, thus leading to the end of the losing streak. The A’s won game 3 of the series by a final score of 5-4.
The series highlighted the Phillies' formidable form, driven by key performances from Turner and Wheeler. At 34-19, they are expected to win most of the time. For the A’s, while the losses were disheartening, the resilience shown in games 1 and 2 offered glimmers of hope. The win in game 3 stopped the bleeding. With the losing streak now over, the team has a chance to turn things around. It begins now. With an overall record of 23-31, they have some ground to make up in order to get back to .500. They’re currently at the bottom of the AL West. And yet, they only trail the team in the lead – the Seattle Mariners – by a relatively miniscule 6 wins. Let that sink in. If this team can get its bullpen sorted and get its bats consistent, they can be on top of the AL West in a couple of weeks. Next up: the Houston Astros, on the road, and then the Toronto Blue Jays, also on the road. That’s five games on the road to complete the month of May.
The A’s return home to Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, CA on Monday, June 2, at 7:05 PM, to face the Minnesota Twins in a four-game midweek series that could very well mark a critical turning point in the 2025 season.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Tia Lee, Robert Longan, and John Larracas for American Presswire and ©2025 Robert Longan, Conrad Melendez, and Ahsan Awan for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @robbielonganphotography. Conrad Melendez can be found on X as @bionicslugg and on Instagram as @cam_spectrum. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
Skid Continues as A’s Sink to 22-29 Overall
The A’s skid continues both home and away. Following a decisive 11-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers on the road on May 13, the A’s have not won a game. They lost to the Dodgers 9-3 on May 14, and then a whopping 19-2 on May 15. Then they went to San Francisco to play the Giants. The A’s lost that entire series. They lost 9-1 on May 16, 1-0 in 10 innings on May 17, and 3-2 on May 18. At least they were in those games until the very end. Then they returned home to face the Anaheim Angels at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento. The A’s lost the first game 4-3 on May 19, they lost 7-5 on May 20, then 10-5 on May 21, and they lost again by a score of 10-5 on May 22. Beginning tomorrow, they face the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game series at home that runs through May 25. The question fans and experts are asking is whether the A’s can stop the bleeding.
The A’s just completing facing the Angels\. In a four-game series from May 19 to May 22, both teams' strengths and challenges were on display as they both navigated the early part of the MLB season.
In the series opener, the Athletics were edged out by the Angels with a final score of 4-3. Despite a late-game rally, the A's couldn't secure the win. This loss marked their sixth consecutive defeat, highlighting ongoing struggles in closing out games.
The second game continued the trend, with the Angels narrowly defeating the Athletics 7-5. The A's showed resilience, but key moments slipped away, extending their losing streak to seven games. The Angels' bullpen managed to hold off the A's late-game efforts, securing the win.
On May 21, the A’s faced another tough loss, this time 10-5. Despite solid performances including a pair of home runs from Nick Kurtz, the A's couldn't overcome the Angels' offensive surge. The Angels capitalized on key opportunities, leading to their third consecutive victory in the series.
The final game of the series on May 22 saw the A’s fall 10-5, concluding a disappointing four-game sweep by the Angels. The A's offense showed promise but couldn't match the Angels' consistent scoring. After taking an early 3-0 lead through three innings, and tacking on two more in the fifth inning, the A’s would lead 5-2 going through a scoreless sixth inning where a pitching change was made. Starter Luis Severino did an excellent job on the mound. He was replaced by Grant Holman, who then opened the door togiving up no fewer than five runs in the seventh inning, thus flipping the board to 7-5 in favor of the visiting Angels. Three more runs in the ninth inning would seal it, and the A’s would register their ninth loss in a row.
With the series concluded, the A’s need to regroup and address both their offensive and pitching strategies. The upcoming series against the Phillies presents an opportunity to break their losing streak and regain momentum. Manager Mark Kotsay must focus on strengthening bullpen performances and finding consistent batting solutions to improve the team's standing in the AL West. Whether this will happen will soon be seen. The A’s take on the Phillies on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 7:05 PM.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Tia Lee, Robert Longan, John Larracas, and Ahsan Awan for American Presswire and ©2025 Tia Lee, Robert Longan, John Larracas, and Ahsan Awan for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Tia Lee can be found on Instagram as @tiaraecreative. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @robbielonganphotography. John Larracas can be found on Instagram as @JohnLarracas. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.
Historic Clash: A’s vs Yankees at Sutter Health Park
Sacramento fans were treated to a rare spectacle the past few days: the New York Yankees, one of Major League Baseball’s most storied franchises, faced the A’s in a three-game series at Sutter Health Park. This matchup was significant, as it marked the first time the Athletics, temporarily relocated from Oakland, hosted the Yankees in their new home in West Sacramento. The games, played on May 9, 10, and 11, drew sell-out crowds, eager to witness the convergence of tradition and transition.
Sutter Health Park, traditionally home to the MiLB AAA Sacramento River Cats, underwent significant renovations to accommodate the MLB side A’s for their 2025 season. The upgrades included a new batter's eye, enhanced lighting, and a revamped home clubhouse behind the left-field wall. These modifications ensured that the ballpark met Major League standards, providing both teams with a suitable venue for big-league play. Still, it’s a relatively small field, perhaps a big hitter’s paradise, and a place where fly balls turn to home runs more than they do outs.
The series opener on May 9 was an absolute wipeout. The A’s, eager to make a statement in their new home, faced off against the Yankees in front of a packed crowd and started pitcher Osvaldo Bido. He held up well for the first two innings, and then it all went downhill. Two runs in the third, then a one-run trickle through the fifth, sixth, and seventh, that came alongside a pitching change. It was 5-0 heading into the eighth before a massive grand slam all but sealed it.
On the other side, strong pitching from a second season who looked like a star; Will Warren delivered for the Yankees. He put in a solid seven innings before being pulled. Coupled with the usual hot bats, led not by the big name, Aaron Judge, but by rising star Jason Dominguez, who logged three runs, three hits, and three homeruns in four at bats. The Yankees were unstoppable. They delivered five more runs in the eighth, doubling the count and raising their total to ten on the night. That’s how it would end, 10-2 Yankees win. The A’s were handed a convincing loss.
The second game on May 10 was incredible. JP Sears got the start on the mound for the A’s, and he delivered. He held the Yankees scoreless through the first three innings while the A’s bats delivered one run in the second and another three in the third. The A’s were up 4-0 through the fifth, and into the sixth, when the Yankees would finally come back with five runs of their own. The lead would change, but only briefly.
Sears put in a solid five innings before Justin Sterner replaced him. Sterner blew the lead and came out quickly, followed by Grant Holman. Despite only being in for a short time, Holman reclaimed the lead that would eventually secure the win, so he got credit for the win. The Yankees were held scoreless in both the seventh and eighth innings while the A’s logged an incredibly seven more runs. The score was 11-6 heading into the top of the ninth. The Yankees would add one more run when Trent Grisham scored off a Judge grounder to short that earned him an RBI, but that’s how it ended, 11-7 A’s win.
The final game of the series on May 11 saw the Yankees clinch the series with a decisive victory. The A’s, despite their best efforts, couldn't overcome the Yankees' potent offense and solid pitching. The game highlighted the challenges the Athletics face in their inaugural season in West Sacramento but also showcased moments of promise and potential.
With a final score of 12-2, it sure seemed one-sided. Indeed, the Yankees scored first with a whopping five runs in the second inning alone, a feat they would repeat later in the fifth, so it really did seem like the A’s went cold. One run in the fourth, and another one in the fifth, was simply not enough. Luis Severino got the loss, and no one in the A’s pitching lineup could really help turn things around. With the bats cold on a day when the best in the lineup, Jacob Wilson, sporting a .348 average, went 0-4 at the plate, the A’s were effectively doomed.
This three-game series was more than just a set of baseball games; it was a symbol of change and continuity. For the A’s, it represented big steps in a new chapter, playing before a new fanbase in a new city. For the Yankees, it was an opportunity to showcase their talent and history in a unique setting.
The sell-out crowds at Sutter Health Park reflected the community's enthusiasm and support for Major League Baseball in the region. The series also highlighted the potential of Sutter Health Park as a temporary home for the A’s, with its intimate atmosphere and passionate fans.
As the A’s continue their season, the lessons learned from this series will be invaluable. The team has shown resilience and determination, qualities that will serve them well in the coming months. For the Yankees, the series was a reminder of their rich history and the bright future ahead. While everyone knows Aaron Judge, Cody Bellinger, and others, the Yankees know that with young talents like Jason Domínguez and Will Warren leading the way, they will remain strong contenders for years to come.
Ahsan Awan has been covering sports for two decades and has been covering professional baseball since 2005. All images taken by Ahsan Awan, Robert Longan, and Jason Reed for American Presswire and ©2025 Ahsan Awan, Robert Longan, and Jason Reed for their specific unique images for American Presswire and subject to unlimited use under license unless otherwise noted. Robert Longan can be found on X as @robbielphoto and on Instagram as @robbielonganphotography. Jason Reed can be found on X as @fieldofdd and on Instagram as @fieldofdaydreams. Ahsan Awan can be found on X as @quackarazzi and on Instagram as @quackarazzi. American Presswire can be found on X as @ampresswire and on Instagram as @ampresswire.