The Oakland Athletics were eliminated from the playoff race several days ago, but that shouldn’t stop them from trying to end their disappointing season on a high note. Well, so far, they haven’t done a good job in doing so, as the A’s enter tonight’s series opener against the postseason-hopeful Mariners as losers of their last three games.
There’s definitely some pressure on Kendall Graveman (10-11, 4.19 ERA) to help the A’s gets back on track when he toes the rubber tonight. He gave up just three runs across seven innings in his last start, only to be handed his 11th loss of the season. A redemption-minded Graveman is to be expected later.
At the plate, look to Marcus Semien or Khris Davis to build on their respective performances from last night’s game with the Angels. Both blasted one homer each and combined for four runs batted in. The latter, by the way, leads the A’s in home runs this season with 41.
The Seattle Mariners, who are just two games short of the final AL wildcard spot, are literally in safe hands with Ariel Miranda (5-2, 4.10 ERA). His current ERA may not totally agree with this, but the lefty’s recent form certainly does. Miranda is 4-2 with a 3.62 ERA through nine starts since being acquired via trade from Baltimore.
However, Miranda’s last start against the Twins on Saturday was short and ugly. He departed after surrendering three hits, two of which were homers, and three runs in four innings. The supportive cheers of the home crowd will be much welcomed by the former Orioles starter. Miranda is 4-0 with a 3.41 ERA in six games (five starts) at home this season.
On offense, expect good things to keep happening whenever Robinson Cano takes the plate. The seven-time All-Star is 12-of-16 with seven RBIs and a trio of doubles and homers in his last six games. Cano is also 6-of-13 lifetime versus Oakland starter Kendall Graveman.
The Mariners are 5-5 SU in their last 10 home games.
