Oakland A's vs Tampa Bay Rays: A's Debut Rookie Pitcher Against Rays' Southpaw as Series Concludes in Tampa Bay
The Oakland A's and Tampa Bay Rays are set to conclude their series in Tampa Bay on Thursday afternoon. The A's are fighting to stay out of last place in the AL West
Game outlook
The Oakland A's and Tampa Bay Rays are set to conclude their series in Tampa Bay on Thursday afternoon. The A's are fighting to stay out of last place in the AL West Division, while the Rays are aiming to make a playoff push from fourth place in the AL East Division. The pitching matchup is expected to feature A's rookie Ryan O'Loughlin making his major league debut against Rays' southpaw Tyler Alexander. The game is scheduled for a 1:10 PM EST first pitch. Tampa Bay is the betting favorite with a line opening at -147 and currently sitting at -152.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Athletics +130 | Rays -152
Spread: Athletics +1.5 (-160) | Rays -1.5 (+140)
Total: Over/Under 8 (-110)
Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Tampa Bay will win straight-up is 60%.
Oakland Athletics
The Oakland A's have struggled recently, with a six-game stretch of alternating wins and losses following an eight-game losing streak. Their offense has been struggling to score runs, with only one game in which they scored more than three runs. Currently battling to stay out of the basement of the AL West Division, the A's won one game against the Rays but lost in a walk-off on Wednesday night. The team also suffered a blow with starting pitcher Ross Stripling being placed on the IL with right elbow inflammation. Australian righty Jack O'Loughlin has been called up to replace him. The A's have several key players out due to injuries. With a power ranking of 27, they currently have a record of 23-34 this season. Check out our Free MLB Picks for a hot take on the MLB season.