MLB Game Preview: Athletics (17-15) vs. Miami Marlins (12-18)

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Miami Marlins logo

The Oakland Athletics and Miami Marlins are set to open a three-game series on May 2, 2025, at loanDepot park in Miami, Florida. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast live on Fubo, Bally Sports Florida, and NBC Sports California.

Starting Pitchers

Oakland Athletics – Gunnar Hoglund (MLB Debut)

Hoglund is set to make his Major League debut, having posted a 2.43 ERA in six starts for Triple-A Las Vegas this season. The 25-year-old right-hander will look to make an immediate impact against Miami’s lineup.

Miami Marlins – Valente Bellozo (1-2, 4.76 ERA)

Bellozo has had an inconsistent start to the season, posting a 4.76 ERA across five starts. He has struggled with command, allowing 11 walks in 28.1 innings, but has shown flashes of potential.

Team Form and Key Players

Oakland Athletics

Oakland has been solid offensively, ranking seventh in MLB with 41 home runs and fifth in slugging percentage (.419).

Key Players:

  • Tyler Soderstrom – Leads the team with nine home runs and 24 RBIs, ranking fourth in MLB in homers.
  • Kyle Stowers – A consistent contributor, helping Oakland maintain offensive balance.

Miami Marlins

Miami has struggled this season, ranking 19th in MLB in home runs (27) and 14th in total runs scored (135).

Key Players:

  • Otto Lopez – Coming off two straight multi-hit games against the Dodgers.
  • Jazz Chisholm Jr. – A key offensive force, looking to spark Miami’s lineup.

Key Matchups and Strategies

  1. Hoglund’s MLB Debut – Oakland’s rookie pitcher will need to handle the pressure of his first big-league start.
  2. Bellozo vs. Athletics’ Power Hitters – Oakland ranks seventh in MLB in batting average (.253), making Bellozo’s ability to limit damage crucial.
  3. Bullpen Battle – Both teams have had inconsistent relief pitching, making late-game execution critical.
  4. Home vs. Away Performance – Miami has struggled at home, while Oakland has been strong on the road.

Game Odds

Athletics                              – 142

Miami Marlins         9.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025

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